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ONE HUNDRED YEARS 

WITH THE 

STATE FENCIBLES 

A HISTORY OF THE 

INFANTRY CORPS, INFANTRY BATTALION 

AND OLD GUARD STATE FENCIBLES 



ONE HUNDRED YEARS 



WITH THE 



STATE FENCIBLES 

A History of the 

FIRST COMPANY STATE FENCIBLES, 

INFANTRY CORPS STATE FENCIBLES, 

INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES 

AND THE 

OLD GUARD STATE FENCIBLES 
1813—1913 



BY 

THOMAS S. LANARD 

CAPTAIN AND ADJUTANT INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLE 




PHILADELPHIA 

NIELDS COMPANY 

1913 



U A4-ao 



Copyright, 1913. 

BY 

Thomas S. Lanard 



PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES 

CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE OF THE INFANTRY BATTALION 

STATE FENCIBLES OF PHILADELPHIA. PENNA. 



(P\r\ A '? J 7 ?; ?^ 1 



TO MY MOTHER 



INTRODUCTION. 

Believing that it would be of interest to the active and retired 
members and the many friends of the "Fencibles" to know 
something of its history, whose record stands second to none, for 
brilliancy and devotion to duty in our great Commonwealth. I 
respectfully submit the following pages. The earlier records 
were obtained from papers in possession of the late Capt. James 
Page, who was secretary from 1815 to 1818, and who joined the 
company in Camp DuPont in 1814, and was Commander for nearly 
fifty years. Being thoroughly acquainted with its early history, 
Captain Page took great pleasure in reciting many events to the 
young men in his command, one of whom was Capt. Edw. E. Packer, 
who joined the company in 1853; and still has the honor of 
being an active member, and at the age of 77 years, materially as- 
sisted me in compiling this history. "I still boast of being an 
active member," said Captain Packer. "My heart beats with just 
as much pride imder its uniform to-day as when a youth of nine- 
teen ; yet the advancing years remind me that but a few more re- 
main, and then I must receive my discharge, to join the great 
army that has gone before. It becomes a labor of love for me, to 
be able to assist in furnishing to the members and friends of the 
Fencibles the history of this organization, which has been noted for 
years, for its activity to which members may point with pride, 
and I sincerely hope that it will encourage them to emulate the 
example given by their predecessors in adding to the brilliant 
record delivered to their keeping. ' ' 

The citizen soldier has been the backbone of American 
fighting forces. America's people are the children of so 
many lands, that, so far as blood is concerned, the greater part 
of Europe, is their mother country. It is within the power 
of America to insure the peace of the world. This is the biggest 
task of the twentieth century and if America richly endowed with 
energy of will, springing out of popular sympathy with progressive 
causes and exhaustless material resources, once gets a vision of the 
active part it can play in bringing the blessings of peace to the 
world, it will prove resistless. To arouse the people, so that they will 

vii 



yiii INTRODUCTION 

take up this question in earnest, is a long and difficult task. You 
can hardly expect people, who do not exert themselves on the side 
of honest and fair dealing, in local and State affairs, to be alert or 
enthusiastic, respecting those problems which call for an intelligence 
or a patriotism, transcending the bonds of State or Nation. They 
need to be impressed with the moral grandeur of a world, united 
in seeking the good of mankind, and of governments honestly, sin- 
cerely, devoutly striving to establish justice. It is the duty of 
America to reconcile outside its border the peoples it has recon- 
ciled within its borders. The safest way to insure peace is to 
maintain a strong reserve militia force, well trained for every 
emergency. This has been the history of the success of the State 
Fencibles. 

It will perhaps be gratifying to all who are interested in the 
National Guard, and especially to the active members, as well as 
those who have retired, to know that to the present day the Fenci- 
bles have upheld its ancient reputation, and have always been a 
credit to its native City and the great Commonwealth of Penn- 
sylvania, and still keeps marching, marching ; marching on, bidding 
defiance. 

It has been the aim of the author to give a brief and con- 
densed History of the State Fencibles; The Infantry Corps State 
Fencibles; The Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, and The Old 
Guard State Fencibles. 

It must be kept in mind, in reading the following pages, that the 
original company was commonly designated "a corps," until 1876, 
when the said body was incorporated as the "Infantry Corps 
State Fencibles," and two years later the corps expanded into a 
Battalion. The Old Guard was originally organized in 1854, and 
was kept together in a more or less perfunctory way until 1901, 
when the Fencibles were precipitated into a law suit to recover 
possession of the Armory, and since that date the Old Guard has 
maintained a very active existence. 

The art work in this book is from the brush of Captain Edw. E. 
Prittie. 

T. S. L. 




CAPTAIN AND ADJUTANT THOMAS S. LANARD. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER 1—1812-1814 

War of 1812 — Organization of the State Fencibles — Preparation for War 
— Tender of Service to Governor — State Fencibles at Camps Bloom- 
field and DuPont — Fencibles Assigned to the Advanced Light Brigade 
— Close of the War — Fencibles Return to Philadelphia 1 

CHAPTER 11—1815-1826 

After the War of 1812 — Election of Captain John C. McCall — Election of 
Captain Charles F. Roberts — Election of Captain James Page — Cele- 
bration of Independence Day — Echoes of Old Walnut Street Prison — 
Organization of First Band — Military Funerals — First Excursion of 
State Fencibles — Parades — Inspections — Celebration of Thanksgiving 
Day 10 

CHAPTER III— 1827-1831 

Anniversary of Battle of New Orleans — Military Day — Visit to Reading, 
Pottsgrove, Norristown — Orders — Visit to Trenton — Target Practice — 
Visit of Montgomery Grays — Visit to New York — Volunteers of 1829 — 
Visit to Wilmington — Presentation of Silver Pitcher to Captan Page 
— ^Visit to Easton, Allentown, Bethlehem, Trenton — Presentation of 
French Flag — A Poem by Captain Page — Presentation of Silver 
Pitcher to Lieutenant Fritz — Visit of Boston City Guards — Visit of 
Easton Washington Grays 21 

CHAPTER IV— 1832-1838 

New Uniforms — Visit to Boston — Orders — Visit to Salem, Providence, Eas- 
ton, Newark, Paterson — Johnson's Celebrated Band — The Boston 
Tigers — Visit to New Brunswick — Visit of Boston Fusileers — New 
Uniforms — Parades — Drills — Visit of Albany Burgess Corps — Visit to 
Albany — Visit of Washington Grays — Visit to Troy 39 

CHAPTER V— 1838-1843 

Buckshot War — Death of Col. Van Schaick — ^Visit to Norristown — Visit of 
Volunteer Corps of Washington Light Infantry — Visit of Troy Citi- 
zens Corps — Visit of Dauphin Guards of Harrisburg — Camp at Easton 
— Easton Washington Grays — Target Firing — Parades — National 
Grays — First Subscription Ball — Anniversary — Lancaster Fencibles — 
Fencibles Assigned to 102d Pa. Vol. Infantry 52 

ix 



J. CONTENTS 

CHAPTER YI— 1844-1845 

The Eiots of 1844— Letter from Col. Page — Death of Lieut. John S. Dut- 
ton — Resolutions — Native American Procession — Captain Page's Re- 
port — Visit of Duquesne Grays — New Uniforms — Military Ball — New 
Armory — Visit of Washington Hillerests — Target Firing — Presenta- 
tion of Original Records of 1813 63 

CHAPTER VII— 1845-1853 

The Mexican War — Washington Medal — Return of Troops from War — 
Death of Sergt. William Rice — Change in Uniform — PriAate Jacob 
Wray — Visit to Reading and Pottsville — Target Firing — Fencibles at 
Tacony — The Page Medal — Hungarian Patriot Louis Kossuth — The 
Pearl Medal — Visit of Reading Rifles Corps — Militia Laws — Fencible 
Punch— Visit of Pottsville Light Infantry 82 

CHAPTER VIII— 1854-1860 

Visit of National Grays — Visit to Fatland — Presentation of Wray Medal — 
Visit of City Blues of Paterson — Target Firing — National Guards — 
New Uniforms — Death of Col. Clement C. Biddle — Laying Corner- 
stone Armory National Guards — Inspection — Visit of Washington 
Artillerists — Organization of Drum Corps — Change of Armory — Ex- 
cursion to New York — Presentation of Staff Medal — Reunion of Sur- 
vivors of Camp DuPont — Mayor Henry's Speech — Shadows of the 
Coming Civil War — Anniversary of Fencibles — Letters — Resolutions . . 99 

CHAPTER IX— 1861-1870 

Firing on Fort Sumter — Call for Volunteers — Fencibles Prepare for Ac- 
tive Service — Orders — Letters — The 18th Reg. Pa. Vol. — Fencibles at 
Baltimore — Letters from the Front — Death of Col. Theo. Hesser — 
Death of Lieut. Jas. B. Grier — Fencibles at Hagerstown — Recovery of 
Body of Col. Hesser — Charles Naylor Elected Captain — After the War 
— Anniversary — Visit to Valley Forge — Celebration of Battle of New 
Orleans — Visit to Albany — Visit to Gloucester — Fencibles Again 
Resume Active Work 129 

CHAPTER X— 1871 

Captain John W. Ryan Elected — Newspaper Criticism — A Protest — Court 
Martial — Orders No. 1, 1871 — Trouble at Scranton — New Rifles — 
Fencibles Avrarded Champion Flag of Penna. — New Uniforms — Visit 
to Camden — Rioting in 4th and 5th Wards — New Armory — Eighth 
Regiment Disbanded — Fencibles Assigned to 4th Regiment — Exhibi- 
tion Drill at Horticultural Hall 152 



CONTENTS xi 

CHAPTER XI— 1872-1873 

Attempt to Form a Battalion — Visit to Wilmington — Challenge of the 
Montgomery Guards of Boston — Founder's Day, Girard College — Pre- 
sentation of Silver Pitcher — Excursion to Atlantic City — Death of 
Gen. Geo. G. Meade — Sur\ivors of the Light Brigade — Braves on 
Tip-Toe — Hon. William D. Kelley — Inauguration of John F. Ilart- 
ranft — Inauguration of President U. S. Grant — Visit of Albany Bur- 
gess Corps — The Military Act of 186-1 — A Testimonial 164 

CHAPTER XII— 1873-1875 

Visit of Washington Light Infantry — The 60th Anniversary — Camp at At- 
lantic City — Orders — Presentation of Marquee Flag — Erie Railroad 
Riots — Presentation of Piano by Ladies' Auxiliary — Boston Fusileers 
— Camp at Edgely — Visit of Cleveland Fire Company — Exhibition 
Drill at Walnut Street Theatre — Death of Col. John Thornley— Death 
of Col. Jas. Page — Collection of Military Library — Resolutions — Pre- 
sentation of Championship Flag — Centennial of Bunker Hill — The 
99th Anniversary of American Independence 185 

CHAPTER XIII— 1876 

Organization of Centennial Legion — Orders — Request from Spanish Con- 
sul — Arrival of Spanish Engineers — Incorporation of Infantry Corps 
State Fencibles — Death of Captain Epstein — Opening of Centennial — 
Centennial Legion Arrives — Parade of July Fourth — Dress Parade of 
Centennial Legion — Presentation of Watch to Major John W. Ryan — 
History of Commands Comprising the Centennial Legion — The Divi- 
sion Parade of July 10th, 1876 — New Haven Grays in Camp at 
Philadelphia — Death of Sergt. W. F. Geer — Putnam Phalanx — Letter 
from Spanish Consul 222 

CHAPTER XIV— 1877-1880 

Departure of Spanish Engineers — Inauguration of President Hayes — 
Memorial Day Celebration — Railroad Riots at Pittsburgh — Scranton 
Riots — A Camp Incident — Flag Presentation — Visit to Atlantic City 
— Presentation of Locomotive Bell — Appeal to Increase Fencibles to 
a Battalion — Election of Major John W. Ryan — Battalion's First 
Parade — John MeCollough Elected a Member — Inauguration of Gov. 
Henry Hoyt — Presentation of Portrait of Major Ryan — Visit of the 
Gate City Guard of Atlanta — Reception to Gen. U. S. Grant — Visit to 
New York — Division Camp at Fairmount Park 259 

CHAPTER XV— 1881-1886 

Visit to New York — Inauguration of President Jas. A. Garfield — Camp at 
Pottstown — Escort to French Delegation — Yorktown Centennial — Lay- 
ing the Cornerstone First Regiment Armory — Camp at Lewistown — 



xii CONTENTS 

Visit to Cape May — Bi-Centennial of Landing of Penn — The Only 
Lady Member of the Fencibles — Governor Robert E. Pattison — Wash- 
ington Birthday Celebration — Camp at Phoenixville — The Last Sur- 
vivor of Camp DuPont — Military Fair — Death of Major John W. 
Ryan — Election of W. Wes. Chew as Major 291 

CHAPTER XVI— 1887-1897 

Inauguration of Governor Beaver — Visit of Gatling Gun Company of 
Camden — 74th Anniversary of Corps — Decoration of Grave of Major 
Ryan — Unveiling of Statue of Gen. Geo. G. Meade — Battalion Ball at 
Academy of Music — Camp at Norristown — New Uniform Adopted — 
Inauguration of President Harrison — Centennial of Inauguration of 
Gen. Geo. Washington as President^ — The Johnstown Flood — Camp at 
Bristol — Death of Gen. John F. Hartranft — Visit to New York — Sec- 
ond Battery N. G. N. Y. — Camp at Mt. Gretna — Ancient and Hon- 
orable Artillery of Boston — An Odd Parade — Fencibles Called Out — 
Camp at Devon — William A. Witherup Elected Major — Company "A" 
Visit to Pottstown — Homestead Riots — Fencibles With Every Member 
Present — Inauguration of President Cleveland — Anniversary Parade 
in the Evening — Thurber T. Brazer Elected Major — Camp at Torres- 
dale — Division Camp at Gettysburg — Camp at Sanatoga — Dedication 
of Grant 's Tomb 309 

CHAPTER XVII— 1898-1900 

The Spanish-American War — Fencibles in Camp — On the March — Camp at 
Middletown — Reception on Return to Philadelphia — Fencibles Mus- 
tered Out of Service — Report of Major Brazer — Fencibles Assigned to 
the 6th Reg. N. G. P.— The Old Guard Reorganized— Trouble Regard- 
ing Possession of Armory — An Attempt to Oust the Fencibles — The 
State Fencibles Reorganize 333 

CHAPTER XVIII— 1900-1903 

Address by Comrade Emanuel Furth Before the Joint Committee of Coun- 
cils — Suit in Equity to Oust the Fencibles from Armory — 88th Anni- 
versary — Opinion of Judge McCarthy in Matter of Suit — Opinion of 
the Supreme Court 351 

CHAPTER XIX— 1904-1909 

Ordinance of 1904 — New Uniforms — Ninety-second Anniversary — Entry of 
Tacony Rifles as Company D — Camp at New Hope — The Reorganiza- 
tion of Band— Camps at Sea Isle City 1908 and 1909 371 

CHAPTER XX— 1910 

Cause of Trolley Strike — Fencibles Called Into Service — Old Guard Reso- 
lutions — Letters of Commendation — Anniversary Parade — Camp at 
Sea Isle City — Sword Presentation — Col. Jos. F. Burke, of Atlanta, 
Ga., Arrives — Invitation to Visit Atlanta 389 



^ CONTENTS xiii 

CHAPTER XXI— 1911 

Military Lectures — Preparation for Visit to Atlanta — Anniversary Parade 
— Orders — Itinerary — Visit to Atlanta — Parade — Unveiling of Monu- 
ment — Entertainment at Atlanta — Visit to Spartanburg, S. C. ; Char- 
lotte, N. C. ; Danville, Va.; and Washington, D. C.-:— Dedication of 
Wanamaker's House of Business 401 

CHAPTER XXII— 1912-1913 

Opening of a Prosperous Year — Publishing an Account of the Visit to 
Atlanta — Inspection — Anniversary Parade — Banquet — Visit to New- 
York and New Haven — Fencibles in the Historical Pageant — Organ- 
ization of Centennial Anniversary Committee — Plans and Arrange- 
ments for Celebration of One Hundredth Anniversary 422 



APPENDIX. 

PAGE 

Muster Rolls, War 1812-1814 i 

Muster Roll Buckshot War, 1838 iii 

Muster Roll Kensington Riots, 1844 iii 

Muster Roll Southwark Riots, 1844 iii 

Muster Roll Mexican War, 1846 iii 

Roll of Survivors of Camp DuPont in 1850 iv 

Muster Rolls for Civil War v 

Muster Roll, April, 1871 viii 

Muster Roll for Pittsburgh and Scranton Riots, 1877, viii 

Muster Roll for Homestead Riots, 1892 ix 

Muster Roll for Spanish-American War, 1898 xi 

Muster Roll Trolley Strike of 1910 xiii 

Muster of Members Attending Atlanta Celebration xiv 

Honorary Members xv 

Manual of Arms, 1833 and 1913 xviii 

Biography of Joseph R. Ingersall xxxi 

Biography of Clement C. Biddle xxxii 

Biography of Hartman Kuhn xxxiii 

Biography of John C. McCall xxxiii 

Biography of Charles F. Roberts xxxiii 

Biography of James Page xxxiii 

Biography of Theo. Hesser xxx^i 

Biography of John Miller xxxvi 

Biography of John W. Ryan xxxvii 

Biography of W. Wes Chew xxxviii 

Biography of William A. Witherup xxxviii 

Biography of Thurber T. Brazer xxxix 

Sketch of Hon. William D. Kelley, xLi 

Muster Roll of Active Members, 1913 xlv 

Muster Roll of Old Guard, 1913 Liii 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PAGE 

The Author Introduction'^ 

Armory State Fencibles Frontispiece "^ 

The Original Articles of Organization 4*^ 

Joseph R. Ingersoll 8 "^ 

Clement C. Biddle li-" 

The Original Fencible 18 -^ 

A Fencible of 1826 30>^ 

Hartman Kuhn 34'^ 

James Page 68"^ 

Trophies and Gifts 84'-' 

Fenciblcs Head Dress 106 '^ 

Biddle Memorial Window 112* 

John Miller 136" 

Theodore Hesser 146*^ 

John W. Ryan 154'' 

Fencibles at Atlantic City 168 "^ 

Medals 188 '' 

Coats of Different Periods . . . 198" 

Page Memorial Window 206 •' 

Spanish Engineers 224" 

Parlor, Co. A, Armory 238^^ 

Fencibles Guarding Troop Train 262-^ 

Champion Flag and Original Banner 268*' 

Escorting the G. A. R 288' 

A Locomotive Bell from Pittsburg Riots 300"- 

W, Wes. Chew SIO"^ 

Fencibles at Academy of Music 316"^ 

William A. Witherup 324 

Thurber T. Brazer 328 "^ 

Fencibles Headquarters, War 1908 334-'' 

Co. A and B, War 1908 340- 

In Camp, War 1908 348*' 

Co C and D, War 1908 360 

Camp Sea Isle City 378 ^ 

Parlor, Co. C, Armory 396^ 

Old Guard at Atlanta 406' 

Uniforms of 1913 412" 

Uniforms of 1913 418 

A Fencible of 1913 424- 

Uniforms of 1913 428" 

xvii 




AHMORY— STATE P^EXCIBLES, BROAD AND RACE STREETS, PHILADELPHIA. 



ONE HUNDRED YEARS 

WITH THE 

STATE FENCIBLES 



'SPECTAMUR AGENDO' 

CHAPTER I. 
1812—1814. 

WAR OF 1812 ORGANIZATION OF THE STATE FENCIBLES — PREPARATION 

FOR WAR — TENDER OF SERVICE TO THE GOVERNOR — STATE FENCIBLES 
AT CAMPS BLOOMFIELD AND DU PONT — FENCIBLES ASSIGNED TO THE 
ADVANCED LIGHT BRIGADE — CLOSE OF THE WAR — FENCIBLES RETURN 
TO PHILADELPHIA. 

The War of 1812 has been most characteristically denominated 
"The Struggle for Commercial Independence." No other country^ 
however feeble in military resources, even to a weakness beyond our 
revolutionary position, could have borne the frequent and degrad- 
ing acts of oppression inflicted upon our rights upon the high seas 
and in foreign ports. American sailors shot down by the cannons 
of English Men of War in sight of their native land; Orders in 
Council ; Impressment of American born seaman, goaded our govern- 
ment to some retaliatory measures, viz : Embargo, Non-Intercourse, 
and finally after all honorable entreaty and negotiation failed, the 
Ultima ratio, the last appeal of forbearing injured nations, war 
was declared June 18th, 1812. Philadelphia at this period had a 
very large Quaker population, who as a class, opposed military' 
display and had a large influence among its citizens, but not suf- 
ficient to prevent some from indulging in their fondness for mili- 
tary exercises. At that time there were three very good companies 
in existence, one a corps of 125 men commanded by Captain Rusche 
and a band, mostly amateur members of the company. Another was 
an excellent company, commanded by Col. Wm, Duane. Another 

1 



2 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1813 

called the Independent Blues, a fine disciplined corps composed of 
Irishmen, commanded by Capt. Stephen Fotterall. They also had 
a band in which old Eberlie and his son, Jacob, celebrated musicians 
of that time, played. Captain Fotterall was an able officer, hav- 
ing acquired a knowledge of tactics in the English service at Dub- 
lin. There were other companies scattered through the state. The 
War had met with much opposition from high quarters, but the 
people proved true to their soil and colors. It was not until the 
capture of the City of Washington by the invaders imder General 
Ross in August, 1814, that the spirit of patriotism ignited into a 
blaze throughout the land. Then it was that old and yoimg en- 
rolled their names under the Star Spangled Banner and marched 
to their assigned posts. At this interesting period we find the first 
Company of State Feneibles, (then the only company of that name) 
in the field. The history of the organizatior of the State Feneibles 
is of the most interesting character as its first muster roll exhibits 
the names of many of our first citizens; distinguished for their 
wealth, talent, and moral worth and it is still more remarkable 
that the public call for its formation was penned and first signed 
by a citizen, eminent as a lawyer and a statesman. A gentleman 
whose abilities and virtues, domestic and public, are the theme of 
universal applause and who received the undivided homage of citi- 
zens of later days, that gentleman was Joseph R. Ingersoll, Esq. He 
may therefore be called, with pride, the father of the Feneibles. A 
copy of the call, in possession of the family of Col. James Page, is 
indorsed thus: — 

"Original articles of a Military Organization afterwards called 
State Feneibles, under the command of Clement C. Biddle. 

The subscribers agree to associate for the purpose of forming 
a Military Corps, to be organized and arranged as soon as a com- 
petent number of signatures can be procured." 

It is regretted that this call bears no date ; but it was penned im- 
mediately after the declaration of war, 1812, and its officers were 
selected before the end of the year. 

The following is a copy of the original roll and signatures : 

J. E. Ingersoll, Henry Sergeant, James W. Smith, Hartman 
Kuhn, T. B. Zantzinger, William Longtag, James E. McKean, 
John B. Smith, William Young, Joseph T. Clement, John W. Perot, 
Thomas Young, John Wallington, S. J. Eobinson, L. Keating, 



1813 ORGANIZATION OF THE STATE FENCIBLES 3 

John Currey, D. R. Serjreant, William Rex, William Boyd, Thomas 
Cave, Clement C. Biddle, Samuel Wilcox, James J. Barclay, Janiea 
Hamilton, Nathaniel Davidson, Jacob Fricke, James H. Coke, 
John Cox, R. Willing, John Pemberton, John G. Biddle, Joseph 
Parkman, William Noble, Franklin Bache, P. A. Cannonge, Sam- 
uel Israel, I). Macoan, J. M. Chapron, Charles Sidney Coxe, 
Charles Hoffner, John McGaflSn, John S. Wood, F. Raveseis, 

Frenier, William Kerr, Thomas Scott, George Reinhow, 

William Chesney, Nathan Baker, Woodward, Robert Poalk 

Benjamin Cannonge, John C. McCall, R. H. Wilcox, James Mont- 
gomery, Peter A. Browne, M. O. Harper, llenry J. Williams, Jo- 
seph B. Norberry, John Gravenstine, William North, William Wor- 
rell, R. Dufourg, Samuel S. Voorhees, Samuel Grice, John J. Bre- 
ban, P. F. Frontanges, Thomas S. White, William Hooker, John 
R. Neff, Charles Ercemly, F. P. Kingston, Jr., J. P. Sc"hively, 
John Baynton, J. W. Norris, Charles Roberts, Thomas Ashmead, 
William J. Duane, F. W. Sperry. 

The date of the first public meeting we have no record ; the first 
public record or indeed of any notice pertaining to the Corps, oc- 
curs in the American Daihj Advertiser of Friday, July 9th, 1813, 
(viz.) Fourth of July celebration. 

' ' The State Fencibles after parading in honor of the day met 
at Fouquet's Garden.* After the reading of the Declaration of 
Independence, at four o'clock, they sat down to a handsome din- 
ner prepared for the occasion. The Corps was favored with the 
company of several officers of the Army and Navy of the United 
States. During the banquet and during the entertainment a 
splendid band played many favorite National airs and marches. 
The toasts and sentiments were numerous and patriotic, and were 
accompanied by appropriate music. During the dinner a depu- 
tation from the Second Troop, Philadelphia City Cavalry, appeared 
and announced the following toast of their Corps: 'The State 
Fencibles, Zealous, Brave and Patriotic ; they only want op- , 

portunity to secure distinction. ' A committee of Fencibles was 
then appointed to wait on the Second Troop with the following 
return for their politeness. 

' ' The Second Troop of City Cavalry, may it soon acquire in ; 

its country's service that distinction which its patriotism prompts ': 

it to desire, and its merits qualify it to achieve." 

The company at this period was under the command of Clement 
C. Biddle. 

♦Fouquet's Garden was between Arch and Race and Tenth and Eleventh Streets, 
entrance on Tenth Street. Previous to the time that Fouquet was proprietor it was 
known as Richardet's, and before that time as Louth Hall, being then kept by a man 
named Hyde, who had been steward to General Washington. 



4 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1813 

In the month of September, 1813, we find in the company ar- 
chives (in possession of the late Colonel Page) a copy of a com- 
munication from Capt. Clement C. Biddle to Governor Snyder ten- 
dering the services of the Fencibles to their country. 

Philadelphia, Sept. 23(1, 1813. 
Sir: 

On behalf of the Company of State Fencibles attached to the 
54th Regiment of Militia of this Commonwealth which I have the 
honor to command, I beg leave agreeably to the resolve of the 
Corps unanimously adopted, to tender their services as a part of 
the next draft which may be required under your excellency's or- 
ders, from the Militia of the district, the Company having been or- 
ganized subsequently to the last requisition. 

1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient 

servant, 

Clkment C. Biddle, 

Captain. 
To his Excellency, the Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth 
of Pennsylvania. 

From the preceding official letter and other papers of later date, 
we date the completion of the organization of the corps under Capt. 
C. C. Biddle, May 26th, 1813, as it would seem from the substance of 
the tender of their services to the Governor that they had not per- 
fected their organization in time for the previous requisition which 
occurred September 3rd, 1812. but the next general order of the 
22nd of July found them an effective body with their armor buckled 
on in condition to take the field. They were then, as they have ever 
proven to be, willing and ready to respond to the call for duty. 
"Their valor was as keen as polished was their arms." 

The crisis which compelled the government to call for a second 
draft, at this period, was the success of the allied powers of Europe 
which left the English government with a large disposeable military 
and naval force, and it was feared the same would be thrown upon 
our shores, which painful conjecture was soon realized. Admiral 
Cockbum arrived in the Chesapeake Bay on August 15th, and an- 
other formidable fleet from the West Indies joined that power with 
6,000 troops, the finest of Washington's Army, under one of his 
most gallant officers. General Ross. This army was landed at Bene- 
dict, thus was Washington City menaced. 

The enemy cruised about the Chesapeake and no one could see 
the objective point of attack. Our militia and volmiteers were 



1814 FENCIBLES CALLED INTO SERVICE 5 

nearly harrasscd to death, in marches and countermarches to meet 
this flying enemy which by means of its ships marked the real point 
of attack. 

At this crisis of affairs came the requisition of the U. S. Govern- 
ment on Pennsylvania for her quoto for active service. Pennsyl- 
vania was ready to salute and measure swords with Wellington's 
veterans. 

The general orders dated July 22nd, 1814, made a strong appeal 
to the patriotism of the militia and volunteer corps throughout 
the State. One paragraph read as follows : — 

"The Governor embraces this occasion to signify his accept- 
ance of the tender of services of the following corps made subse- 
quent to general orders of September 3d, 1812, by the follow- 
ing Commanders: 

Capt. Thomas Walker, Harrisburg Volunteers. 

Capt. Clement C. Biddle, State Fencibles. 

Capt. Andrew Mitchell, Rifle Company. 

Capt. Henry Reed, Benevolent Rifles. 

Capt. James Noble, Light Dragoon. 

Capt. Nicholas Beekworth, Rifle Company. 

Capt. Samuel Dunn, Rifle Company. 
He also expresses the high gratification and feels that now 
the occasion having occurred, they will one and all with the de- 
termination of freeman, realize the patriotic professions in which 
their several communications contained. ' ' 

On August 24th, 1814, the English Army captured the City of 
Washington after a battle fought at Bladensburg, in which Captain 
Peters, of the Georgetown Artillery ; Old Captain Barney with his 
Flotilla Crew, and Captain Miller and his Marines covered them- 
selves with unfading laurels. 

The latter part of the year 1813 and the first half of 1814, was 
distinguished by the role of dreadful preparations for the ap- 
proaching conflict. Volunteer Corps of every description of arms 
were forming all over the State, and the recruiting of regulars for 
the Canadian frontier went actively on ; while the Atlantic shores 
were left to the volunteers and militia for protection. These new 
troops were totally ignorant of the improved evolutions of the line 
or even the simplest manoeuvres of the field ; indeed there were no 
Battalion or Regimental organizations, little bej^ond the manual ex- 
ercise, squad drill and school of the company was known. With 
this glimmering of science there was wanted properly educated men 



6 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENOIBLES 18U 

as iustruetors and officers. The valiant spirits who hastened to 
the defense of a common conntry, were little qualilied to take the 
field with the ordinary militia, as it were our officers and men were 
tauirht in the field of active service. It was in the presence of the 
enemy that they acquired their knowledge of tactics, and it may 
be said that their teachers, the enemy, were the finest disciplined 
troops in the world. They had landed on our shores Hushed with 
victoiy over Napoleon's Veterans. 

At this alarming crisis just fears were entertained for the safety 
of Philadelphia. After the capture of Washington City, a public 
meeting of citizens was immediately convened and a eonnuittee of 
defense was appointed with ample ]->o\vor to adopt such measures 
as the exigency of the occasion might demand. 

The following arc the several orders issued to the eommand pre- 
paratory to their term of active service, together with the roll of 
the company when mustered into the United States service.* 

Company Orders. 

July '2Sth. ISU. 

I. The teuder of service by the State Fenoiliks having been ac- 
cepted by the Governor of this Commonwealth as signified in his 
orders of the 22d inst., it becomes expedient that the Company 
drills on the mornings of Tuesday and Thursday at 6 A. M. in 
the State House yard should be regularly attended by all the 
members and that no time should be lost in providing the equip- 
ments required, and adopted by the Company for active service. 
Such memb*'rs therefore who have not yet apjilied to Mr. Martin 
for their knapsacks and canteens are requested to do so inimedi- 

' ately; also the new members are earnestly invited to sign the 

articles of association and equip themselves with all speed. 

II. Agreeably to the foregoing preceding general order it be- 
comes necessary to furnish the Brigade Inspector with a correct 
muster roll of the Company, and in order therefore to complete 
the return, the vacancies existing in the non-commissioned officers 
will now be filled by the Captain agreeably to the militia law and 
the by-laws of the Company. 

III. Mr. Raveseis, continuing in the Corps, is reinstated to his 
rank of Sergeant. Samuel Wilcox, William Young and Wil- 
liam Phillips, are hereby appointed Corporals, and will be obeyed 
and respected accordingly. 

IV. The members of the Company who offered their resigna- 
tions and have not removed from the bounds of the first division 
of the Militia of this Conunonwealth under the impression that 
their tender of service might not be required, it is conceived only 
necessary to be informed that their services have been accepted 

•For Muster Roll, see Appendix. 



1814 ORDERS AND LETTERS 7 

by the Governor agreeably to their tender, and they will resume 
their duties which they had so cheerfully imposed on themselves. 
In the meantime in order to accelerate the equipment of the Corps, 
the Company will assemble according to order. (Blue pantaloons 
as agreed upon for service) provided with knapsacks, canteens, 
blankets, etc., and 26 rounds of cartridges, in the State House 
ynrd on Thursday next at 7 A. M. 

By order of 
Clement C. Biddlb, 

Captain. 

Shortly thereafter Capt. Clement C. Biddle sent the following 
communication to Daniel Shay, Brig, Inspector. 

Sir: 

I do certify upon my word of honor as an officer and gentleman 
that the above* is an accurate and true muster roll of the Com- 
pany of State Fencibles attached to the 54th Regiment of Penn- 
sylvania Militia and that the members of said Company are com- 
pletely equipped, uniformed and armed for actual service. 

Clemen't C. Biddle, 
To Daniel Shay, Captain. 

Brig. Inspector. 

The following order received August 18th, 1814, from the Bri- 
gade In.%pector must have been issued during the absence of the 
commander on the expected arrival of troops from other parts of 
the State en route for Camp Bloomfield. 

August 13th, 1814. 
Capt. Clement C. Biddle, 

Commanding State Fencibles. 
Sib: 

You are requested to parade the Corps under your command on 
Monday, 15th inst., at 3 P. M. Thence to march and meet the 
detachment agreeable to the Brigade orders. 

Yours Respectively, 

DAjaEL Shay, B. I. 

These few preliminary historical facts explain the origin and final 
entry into the United States services of the State Fencibles, called 
into existence in 1813, and fully organized, equipped at their own 
expense; drilled for the field in 1814, under the command of 
Clement C. Biddle. 

General Bloomfield, U. S. A., of Revolutionary fame, was at this 
period in command of the 4th military district with headquarters 

•For Muster Roll, see Appendix. 



8 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1814 

at Philadelphia. This officer resolved to camp as a point of rendez- 
vous and instruction, and form a line of communication with the 
Maryland and Virginia forces to assist in opposing the enemy who 
had captured the City of Washington, and were making demonstra- 
tions on the City of Baltimore. With that view he dispatched an 
officer of the regular army to select a suitable site at Kennet 
Square, in Chester County, 36 miles south of Philadelphia and 9 
miles from Chaddsford. 

The various volunteer companies, whose services had been ac- 
cepted, immediately marched for that encampment, which in honor 
of the Commander was called Camp Bloomfield. On the 26th day of 
August the State Fencibles left the city and arrived at the camp 
on the 29th. A course of rigid discipline and duty was at once 
adopted, conforming to that practiced in the regular army. 

This was introduced and enforced by Capt. C. W. Hunter, U. S. 
A., acting Major under General Bloomfield. and was subsequently 
adhered to by the respective officer in command, and this system, 
being rigidly enforced, made the high military character which the 
Advanced Light Brigade so brilliantly acquired during the cam- 
paign. The several companies encamped at this place with the 
Fencibles were organized as the Advanced Light Brigade under Gen. 
Thomas Cadwalader. 

The company's report of the 15th of August, 1814, in compli- 
ance with the order of the 13th ; muster present for duty 86, ab- 
sent on furlough 38, absent without leave 10, total 114. The com- 
pany was under orders from this time but was not yet assigned 
until they were ordered to Delaware at Camp Bloomfield, to form 
a part of the Advanced Light Brigade. The Corps marched from 
Philadelphia for camp August 25th and arrived on the 29th of the 
same month, making easy marches and taking advantage of every 
opportimity offered to instruct the members in the open country 
while on the march and on halting, placing guards for the night 
and receiving much good instructions in their duties as soldiers. 
After their arrival in camp the troops were formed into Battalions, 
September 22nd, 1814, Captain Biddle was promoted to Colonel 
and Lieut. Hartman Kuhn was promoted to Captain of the com- 
pany. 

The company served until the close of the war doing good 
service in moving form point to point with the Advanced Light 
Brigade. 




THE ORGANIZER OF THE STATE FENCIBLES. 



1814 CAMPS BLOOMFIELD AND DU TONT 9 

September 29th, the troops from Camp Bloomfield final!}' en- 
camped at Camp DuPont having removed to Greggs Farm on the 
17th, thence to Camp Brandy wine on the 20th, thence to DuPont 's 
that day. The Brigade changed its encampment several times; the 
last position selected was in the neighborhood of Wilmington. On 
the morning of November 30th, 1814, the troops left Camp DuPont, 
and returned to the city of Philadelphia, the 2nd day of December, 
1814. The State Fencibles, together with the other companies at- 
tached to Col. C. C. Biddle's regiment, part of the Light Brigade, 
were mustered and inspected preparatory to being dismissed from 
the U. S. service. On the 8th of January, 1815, they were dis- 
charged after having performed a four months' tour with great 
credit to themselves and satisfaction to their officers. The Fenci- 
bles mustered 124 rank and file, and five commissioned officers. 
The company after its return to the city sustained a considerable 
diminution of its strength, owing, in a great measure, to the peace 
which took place, and the little encouragement oifered by the 
Militia Laws. 



CHAPTER II. 

1815-1826. 

AFTER THE WAR OP 1812 — ELECTION OF CAPT. JOHN C. MCCALL — ^ELEC- 
TION OF CAPT. CHARLES F. ROBERTS — ELECTION OF CAPT. JAMES 
PAGE — CELEBRATION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY — ECHOES OF OLD WAL- 
NUT STREET PRISON ORGANIZATION OF FIRST BAND — MILITARY 

FUNERALS — FIRST EXCURSION OF STATE FENCIBLES — PARADES — IN- 
SPECTIONS — CELEBRATION OF THANKSGIVING DAY. 

The war being closed the several companies were mustered out 
of the United States service. The Fencibles resolved to continue 
their association and after a short rest held an election for officers 
on May 12th, 1815. The following is the report of the Brigade 
Inspector of the Governor: 

Philadelphia, May 12th, 1815. 
Sir: 

I enclose you a list of names of the officers elected with the 
date of their elections, of the Volunteer Company of State Fenci- 
ibles. Captain, John C. McCall; 1st Lieut., Peter A. Cannonge; 
2d Lieut., William Kerr. 

With respect, your obedient servant, 

Daniel Sharp, 
Inspector 1st Brig., 1st Div., P. M. 

Upon returning from active service Captain Kuhn desired to re- 
tire and declined to be a candidate for Captain. Captain McCall 
after serving two years desiring to retire resigned his commission 
and on June 27th, 1817, an election was held at the home of Peter 
Evans* when Charles F. Roberts was elected Captain, Thomas C. 
Rockhill 2nd Lieut., and Samuel P. Wetherill for Ensign. Thus 
the Corps had for its third Captain, John C. McCall in 1815, and 
its fourth Captain, Charles F. Roberts in 1817. At this period 
James Page steps forth from his humble position in the Corps to 
Lieutenant. 

•Evans' Hotel in 1816 was situated at 26 South Sixth Street, northwest corner of 
Carpenter Street, was Itept by Peter Evans, subsequently known as the Falstaff Inn. 
10 



1819 EESIGNATION OF CAPTAIN ROBERTS H 

The minutes of the Company embracing the next two years show 
that they pursued the even tenor of their way in sundry meetings, 
regular and special and adjourned, which were participated in by 
many of the members. Yet all did not flow in harmony, some 
strong feeling and influence prevailed against Captain Roberts, as 
is shown by the nature and significancy of subsequent meetings, 
resolutions and correspondence. 

An extract from the minutes: 

At a special meeting of the Company, May 12th, 1819, Lieu- 
tenant Page in the chair and Ensign Wetherill as Secretary. It 
was resolved that a committee be appointed for the purpose of 
■waiting on Captain Roberts with a request that he would resign 
the command of the Company. It was resolved that Lieutenant 
Page and Ensign "Wetherill be a committee for the city, and 
Sergeant Wray and Corporal Joseph Rodgers for the county for 
the purpose of calling on members of the Company to ascertain 
their determination relative to our future operations. It was re- 
solved that when they adjourn, it be to meet at Minks Tavern at 
8 P. M. and that public notice be given of the time and place of 
meeting in one or more papers of the city. Adjourned in harmony. 

Sam'l Wetherill. 

Seer eta ri/. 

At the adjourned meeting held at Minks Tavern the committee 
had attended to the business confided to them and submitted the 
resignation of Captain Roberts. There were no objections to the 
Captain as to his abilities or his social standing, or his deportment 
as a gentleman ; but it was his neglect of the duties imposed on 
him as Commander. 

Thursday, May 13th, 1819. 
Gentlemen of the State Feneibles: 

In presenting my resignation permit me to express the regret 1 
feel in leaving the Corps to which I have been so much indebted. 
Though I may have failed in my duty incident to my situation, J 
have the pleasure in knowing that the command will devolve upon 
a gentleman whom, most entitled him to your highest confidence 
and who has since the revival of the Corps performed its most 
arduous duties. I now take my leave, offering you my best 
wishes for the prosperity of the Company, and the welfare and 
happiness of each individual gentleman. 

Your obedient servant, 

Charles F. Roberts. 



12 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1819 

In these early days, as we find it to-day, the authorities deemed 
it expedient to levy fines for non-attendance. 

1st Regiment, Penna. Vol. Infantry, 
102d Regiment, Pennsylvania Infantry. 
Regimental Orders. 

An adjourned meeting of the Field and Company Officers of 
this Regiment will be held at Stratton's Tavern, South Sixth 
Street, on Tuesday, the 21st December, at 3 o'clock in the after- 
noon, then and there to hear and act upon the reports of the 
Collectors and others appointed to levy and collect the fines 
incurred for non-attendance on the days of training. The Col- 
lectors and individuals who wish to be exonerated and excused 
from the collection and payment of fines, are hereby notified to at- 
tend at the said time and place. 

By order of 

Col. Clement C. Biddle. 
James Page, 

Act. Adj. 

From 3814 on returning from the service until 1819, the Corps 
was not very active in demonstrations, owing to the fact that it 
was composed of men who were engaged in public life, lawyers and 
those actively engaged in business; but all were patriots who left 
their business and took leave of their families at the call of their 
country and faithfully discharged their duty as soldiers, sharing 
with others the trials and fatigue of field duty, and as peace had 
returned they did not feel it incumbent on them to perform active 
military duty. They were content to form a part and assist the 
Corps at its meetings or in its social gatherings. In those days 
there were no halls suitable for military exercises so that they were 
compelled to drill in the public squares which was distasteful to 
many. 

The younger members, however, were adding a more active ele- 
ment to the Corps. Their ranks were being increased at every 
meeting which gave the older members an opportunity for gradual 
retirement. It was at this time that James Page was called to the 
command, and who held the position from youth to veteran age, 
nearly 50 years. 

At a meeting of the Company at this period, it was resolved that 
the Company parade for roll call in the State House yard in un. 
dress uniform for the purpose of ascertaining the active strength 
of the command. 



1819 NEW ACTIVITY— INDEPENDENCE DAY 13 

The Commander who was determined to have a more active 
roll for dnty. on June 8th, 1819, assembled the Company at the 
house of Rowland Smith and 40 members answered to their names. 
They then elected for Captain, James Page; 1st Lieut, Samuel P. 
Wethorill ; 2nd Lieut., Andrew Wray ; Ensign, John D. ]\Ialoney, 
and from that date to the present time the Fencibles have enjoyed 
a very active existence. Always ready for duty when called upon 
to support the law and preserve order. Its reputation for dis- 
cipline and perfection of its drill is known over the broad expanse 
of our country, and it still keeps marching on, ever ready to rally 
around the flag of our country, under whose folds and for whose 
protection it was called into existence. 

Captain Page was a young man of some military standing prior 
to his election as Captain as the following will confirm : 

To Whom it May Concern : 

I, Peter A. Browne, Colonel of the 81st Regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania Militia, have this day, (by virtue of the authority in me 
vested by the Militia Laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylva- 
nia) appointed James Page paymaster of the said Regiment, and 
do order and direct that he be obeyed and respected accordingly. 
Witness my hand and seal this eleventh day of July, Anno Do- 
mini, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen. 

P. A. Browne, 
Col. 81st Eegt. P. M. 

On Monday, July 5th, 1819, the Company assembled at the house 
of James Sloan, (Kaighns Point, N. J.), and commemorated Inde- 
pendence Day by a sumptuous dinner with a number of friends. 
Toasts were read and songs were sung, after singing Auld Lang 
Syne the company dismissed. 

On August 23rd, they assembled in full uniform for parade, 4 
officers and 38 men answered the roll call. The Company began to 
show signs of improvement and activity under its new Commander. 

The uniform of that day was the same as worn while in the serv- 
ice in 1814, and consisted of a dark blue tight body coat with small 
tails, three rows of silver bell buttons on the front, light blue trous- 
ers, narrow at the bottom and strapped under the boot. Black 
leather hat 10 inches high with broad top, with white feather plume, 
tipped with blue 12 inches high, white sheepskin cross belts. 

The Corps was in admirable condition at this time and showed 
on its rolls an active element. The older members made prepara- 



14 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1820 

tions to retire and arranged to turn over to the new members all 
property in their possession. Accordingly, on November 29th the 
Company was ordered to parade to receive the original banner 
that was presented to the Company prior to the War, which is 
still among the curios of the organization. 

The Company assembled in the city square and proceeded to the 
quarters of the Adjutant of the 102nd Regiment, Lieut. P. A, Can- 
nonge, formerly in the Fencibles, where he presented the banner 
as instructed by a resolution of the old members, which was re- 
ceived by Captain Page. The Company then made a short parade 
and dismissed. 

In October of this year there was a target firing, the first on 
record by the Fencibles, the prize being a silver goblet. The min- 
utes, however, do not state where the firing took place. 

In January, 1820, there had been considerable trouble in the 
old Walnut Street prison between the prisoners and keepers. The 
climax came when John Runner, a mulatto, a rather harmless fel- 
low, who, for some squabble with a fellow prisoner, had been put 
in a cell, was liberated from confinement and came rimning 
through the jail j^ard crying, "Liberty or death." A shot from 
the pistol of Thomas Carter struck him in the forehead and some- 
what deranged him. Although warned of his danger and told to 
remain quiet and not expose himself to the sentinels on the jail 
wall, he became reckless, and, dasliing through the southern arch, 
under the workshop, in full view of the citizens, he bared his 
breast, and with an imprecation, called upon them to fire. A 
musket was discharged and the ball piercing him directl}^ through 
the heart, he fell instantly dead. 

The convicts were still unsubdued, and they with heavy planks, 
used as a battering ram, were beating down the Sixth Street gate, 
when the Walnut Street gate was thrown open to admit a body of 
citizen soldiers and soon the passage bristled with bayonets and 
presented a power against which they could not hope to prevail. 
The Sheriff, Caleb North, put the force under the command of 
Colonel Biddle, who took prompt and soldierly measures to sup- 
press the riot. Mounting a marble block, the Colonel with that air 
of determination which marked his race, took out his watch and 
said : "I give you just three minutes to march to your rooms, any 
hesitation will bring upon you a volley from these muskets." That 
was sufficient, they felt that now there would be no trifling and 




i;^^^^/'i4>^/i/t^ (::^^'^/^^. 



FIKST CAt'TAlX OK THE STATE KEXC 1 liLES. 



1820 PARADE— WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY— FUNERAL 15 

they sullenly took the way to their quarters. By the aid of the 
military, forty -five of the most prominent disturbers were put in 
the cells and ironed, to await the .iudg:ment of the Court. A body 
of fifty men were kept on guard for three nights and four days, 
when order was again restored. 

In May, 1820, the Corps paraded with the 81st Regiment, P. M., 
Col. Peter A. Browne, as right flank company. He was one of the 
signers of the original papers for the formation of the State Fenci- 
bles, a prominent member of the Philadelphia Bar, and commanded 
the Independent Blues in the Division under General Cadwalader 
during the War, He was counsel for the defendant in the case 
of Richard Coutts Smith, who was convicted and executed for the 
nuirder of Captain Carson, and when the insurrection took place 
in the Prison, comer of Sixth and Walnut Streets, he rendered 
efficient service, shooting one of the prisoners while in the act of 
scaling the walls. He fought a duel with Hon. Richard Rush, 
then prosecutor in the Criminal Court of the City, afterwards Min- 
ister to England; on the Jersey Shore near Cooper's Point. It re- 
sulted in no injury to either, they parting with an amicable and 
perfect reconciliation between them. His Volumes of Law Reports 
are well known to the Bar of Philadelphia, and he was the Author 
of several essays on scientific subjects. He died in Philadelphia, 
and w^as buried in the Cemetery attached to St. Peter's Church at 
Third and Pine Streets. 

On July 4th, the Company spent the day at the house of Mr. 
Curtis Grubb at Pine Grove, where a sumptuous dinner was pre- 
pared for them and their friends. 

The minutes give the contract the committee accepted, which is 
here inserted. 

To furnish the dinner, including brandy, gin and spirits, for 

$1.50 per head, without liquors $1.25, cost of wines as follows: 

Maderia, $2.00 per bottle; Tenereffe, $1.00 per bottle; Claret, $.75 
to $1.50 per bottle. 

On October 28th, the Company paraded to burj^ with honors, two 
late comrades, M. Shoemaker and W. C. Frick. 

In the year 1821, there were several parades, one on February 
22nd, Washington's Birthday, and on the 22nd of IMarch to the 
funeral of a comrade, Francis Boyd, another on July 4th, with 
the Company of Washington Guards, and on September 17th, for 
inspection. 



16 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1821 

At this period there were many changes in membership in the 
Company. The Company would assemble for drill on Tuesdays at 
5 o'clock in the morning in the State House yard, and on Friday 
evenings at the houses of either Rowland Smith, Minks Tavern, or 
Chalkley Bakers, and they often drilled at 6th and Race Streets. 
On June 27th, the Corps withdrew from the 102nd Regiment, 
P. V. I. 

The 4th of July dinners were considered great occasions and 
were arranged with much care, sometimes held at Kaighn's Point, 
kept by Mr. Sloan, and at Grubbs Tavern at Bristol, During this 
year a band was organized of colored musicians of 4 pieces, 1 
bugler, 1 fifer, bass drum, and small drum, and equipped with a 
scarlet coat. The Corps paraded for inspection, on September 
27th, with, for the first time, Frank Johnson's Colored Band. He 
was celebrated for his abilities as a leader and for his musical tal- 
ents. A great favorite with the fashionable people of Philadelphia 
and furnished them with the music for their balls and private 
parties. For many years he lead the band at Saratoga and other 
watering places. He went to England in 1836. He could per- 
form on many instruments but was noted for his Violin and Kent 
bugle. The latter being just introduced by him into Philadelphia 
and attracting considerable attention. He was born in Philadel- 
phia, died here on the 6th day of April, 1844, in the 52d year of his 
age and was buried with interesting ceremonies in the groimd at- 
tached to St. Thomas' Episcopal Church, Fifth Street below Wal- 
nut. For many years his band was attached to the Fencibles and 
accompanied the Corps on all its excursions. Johnson was very 
popular and much respected, but the band for a long time had to 
encounter public opposition which, however, gradually wore away. 
On November 11th, the White Musicians resigned from the Corps 
because of the retention of the Colored Band. 

Among the resignations offered during the year there were some 
overflowing with patriotic sentiment, and to give the reader an idea 
of some of the gushing lines, one is inserted below: 

Philadelphia, Sept. 21st, 1821. 
Gentlemen : 

Circumstances render it inconvenient for me to remain longer 
a member in your honorable Corps. Please accept this, my resig- 
nation, I cannot cease to be a member without regret nor with- 
out wishing that your name may be enrolled in the list of Mill- 



1822 ELECTION— THANKSGIVING DAY— FUNERAL 17 

tary fame, and celebrated on the pages of History. If ever again 
called on by your country to exert that energy and activity that 
distinguish the brave in the hour of danger, may you be led 
by the Spirit of Washington, and be governed by the unparalleled 
success of a JacEson. 

Gentlemen, I remain. 

Yours with respect, 

William S. Herse. 
To the State Fcncibles. 

The year 1822, opened with the following changes in officers : 
1st Lieut., John D. Maloney; 2nd Lieut., Wm. Graveustine; 3rd 
Lieut., Adam Levy. During the year the Company paraded on 
Washington's Birthday, and also on the Anniversary, 26th of May, 
and on the 4th of July, the Corps with their guests dined at Wood- 
man 's* Tavern. 

On October 28th, the Fencibles attended the funeral of their 
late Comrade, Charles Warner, where they fired three volleys over 
the grave of a good soldier. 

On Thanksgiving Day, the Corps made a street parade and were 
entertained at the Anderson Hotel, by a number of the retired 
members. This was the last demonstration noted for this year. 

In 1823, there was a change in the officers, Amos Howell was 
elected 2nd Lieutenant and Wm. Hagner, 3rd Lieutenant. 

The 4th of July was observed by visiting Bristol to partake of 
the annual dinner, the Corps was accompanied by many of their 
friends where the day was spent in a patriotic manner. 

In October, the Corps paid the last sad rites at the funeral of 
their late comrade, Joseph Borell, and on this occasion they were 
accompanied by Johnson's Black Band of four pieces. 

On November 29th, Thanksgiving Day, the Corps made a parade 
through some of the principal streets of the city, stopping at the 
hotel of Mr. Saint to partake of a collation, and later returned to 
the house of Rowland Smith where they dismissed. 

The year 1824, was a very active year for the Fencibles. On 
February 22nd, Washington's Birthday, the Corps paraded in 
honor of the day, marching through a heavy snow. 

April 15th, the Corps was called on to parade at the funeral of 
their late comrade, Vansciver, who was buried with military honors. 

*Stell Woodman's. The Woodman was the sign of a tavern on Germantown road, 
above the junction of Fifth Street, between the present Berks and Norris Streets. The 
place had the same sign for many years. 
2 



18 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1824 

]\Iay Srd, they paraded as escort to the Columbian Light Guard, 
on the occasion of the presentation of a beautiful Stand of Colors 
to them by their friends. After the ceremonies the Fencibles were 
entertained by the Guard. 

May 27th, the 11th anniversary of the Corps, they paraded in 
honor of the day. 

Sunday, July 4th, the Corps attended divine service. On the 
5th they spent the day at Grubbs Tavern where a handsome dinner 
was spread and the Declaration of Independence was read; toasts 
and speeches were made by a number of friends. 

At the regular meeting of the Corps in August, a resolution 
was passed offering their services to the City Councils for any Mili- 
tary display or duty that might be required during the visit of 
Marquis De Lafayette to this city. The parade occurred on Sep- 
tember 23rd at Rush's field.* Frankford Road. 

On September 14th, the Company made its usual Fall parade, 
marching through some of the principal streets and partaking of 
a collation at the Merchants Hotel. 

In the year 1825 is noted a change in officers: 1st Lieut., Peter 
Fritz ; 2nd Lieut.. Amos Howell ; 3rd Lieut., W. L. Forepaugh. 

On Januarj^ 8th, the Company paraded in honor of General Jack- 
son's victorj'- at New Orleans. General Jackson was greatly ad- 
mired by the members of the Corps and Captain Page was his warm 
personal friend. t 

On the 3rd of March of this year the Corps attended the funeral 
of their Comrade, James McGlaughlin; they also escorted the re- 
mains of Capt. George H. Morris, U. S. A., to its last resting place 
with the usual Military Ceremonies. 

On July 4th, the Corps commemorated the day with their usual 
dinner. 

On August 15th, the Company assembled for parade. After the 
assembly Gen. Thomas Snyder, of the 2nd Brigade, was introduced 
and after a short complimentary address he requested them, after 
their parade, to act as escort to the remains of Dr. Peter Perez, 
a Revolutionary hero. The day was intensely hot and after a short 
parade the Company was entertained at the White Bear Tavern, 
comer of 5th and Race Sts., from where they proceeded to the 



♦Rush's field was on Frankford road, a half mile beyond the first turnpike gate. 
It was the place where the military were assembled at Lafayette's Reception in 1824. 
tSee Jackson Medal page. 



1825 PARADE— FIEST EXCURSION— TARGET FIRING 19 

residence of the deceased and paid the last Military Honors to a 
brave soldier. 

On October 2nd, the Company paraded with the Regiment. 
After the parade was dismissed, and in the presence of the officer 
of the Regiment, Commander Colonel Watmough paid a high com- 
pliment to the Fencibles. After thanking the officers for their at- 
tention, said: 

' ' That the State Fencibles with respect to their position in the 
line and conduct generally was the only Company in my Regiment 
with which I had no trouble or fault to find." 

This concluded the outdoor demonstrations for the year but 
the drills were kept up with the usual regularity. 

In 1826. the first parade of the year was on an invitation from 
Colonel Ritter. of the 129th Regiment, which occurred on May 
29th. In those days the Corps held a verj^ high and prominent 
social position. The minutes record many invitations from other 
organizations to parade with them which, in many instances, were 
respectfully declined. 

July, the 3rd, w-as the first excursion of the Fencibles, they hav- 
ing been invited by Colonel Ritter to unite with the Governor's 
Guard of Roxborough, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Amer- 
ican Independence at that town. The Company assembled on the 
3rd, at one o'clock and marched to Roxborough under the com- 
mand of Captain Page, Lieutenants Fritz and Howell, where they 
arrived late in the afternoon and were hospitably entertained at 
the Levering Hotel by Geoffrey Leinhoft. On the morning of the 
4th, the Company took part in the parade, and in the afternoon 
and evening the members were entertained by the citizens in royal 
style, who spared nothing for their comfort. On the morning of 
the 5th, bidding good-bye to their generous entertainers, they took 
up the line of march for home. 

September 25th, was a day for target practice. The Company 
took up the march to Lamb Tavern, on the back road to the 
Falls of Schuylkill, to fire for a Silver Medal, presented by Charles 
Benjamin, Mathew McConnell and Wm. Eltonhead. Captain 
Dixon, of the Governor's Guards of New" York, acted as judge. 
Private Isaac Schell won the prize by striking the target one and a 
half inches from the center. After partaking of a collation the 
Corps marched home accompanied by their colored band. 



20 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1826 

During this year the uniform was changed to a blue coat, edged 
with red cashmere, 3 rows of white ball buttons in front, plain full 
pantaloons of blue cloth for Winter, and white drilling for Sum- 
mer. Black glazed hat with plated chain and eagle black cockade 
and plated star, white pompon tipped with blue in front. White 
cartridge and bayonet belts, white body belt and plate, white 
musket strap and gloves, blue tompkins and boots worn under the 
pantaloons. 

At this period there was a Citizens' Corps, composed of citizens 
enrolled under the Militia Law of the State, who paraded with 
the Company twice each year and were equipped with high silk 
hat, plain blue coat, black stock or cravat, blue cloth pantaloons 
for Winter, and white drilling for Summer, and boots Avorn under 
pantaloons. This Citizens' Corps, being composed of the first citi- 
zens of our city much preferred to do their duty with the Fencibles, 
than to report for roll call at the assemblages on Militia Day 

During the year the Corps reorganized and increased their band 
to 6 pieces — 2 fifers, 2 buglers, 2 drummers, and engaged the col- 
ored bugler, Frank Johnson, who had led the band for many years. 

In those daj^s the city did not enjoy the brilliancy produced by 
gas or electric light of our times, as may be seen by the following 
order : 

November 13th, 1826. 
The Company will assemble for drill at the house of John 
Chase, on each Monday evening at early candle light until further 
notice. 

James Page, 

Captain. 

It may be well to state here that the accommodations were so lim- 
ited that the members were compelled to keep their accoutrements 
and muskets home, and carry them to each drill. 

The demonstrations of the year ended with a street parade on 
November 27th, Thanksgiving Day. After parading through the 
principal streets they returned to Anderson's Hotel where they par- 
took of a collation and then dismissed. 



CHAPTER III. 

1827—1831. 

ANNIVERSARY OP BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS — MILITARY DAY — VISIT TO 

READING, POTTSGROVE, NORRISTOWN ORDERS — VISIT TO TRENTON — 

TARGET PRACTICE — VISIT OF MONTGOMERY GRAYS — VISIT TO NEW 
YORK — VOLUNTEERS OF ] 829 — VISIT TO WILMINGTON — PRESENTA- 
TION OF SILVER PITCHER TO CAPTAIN PAGE — VISIT TO EASTON, ALLEN- 
TOWN, BETHLEHEM, TRENTON — PRESENTATION OF FRENCH FLAG 

A POEM BY CAPTAIN PAGE — PRESENTATION OF SILVER PITCHER TO 
LIELTTENANT FRITZ — VISIT OF BOSTON CITY GUARDS — VISIT OF EASTON 
WASHINGTON GRAYS. 

On January 8th, 1827, the anniversary of the Battle of New Or- 
leans, the Company paraded in honor of the day, and also on Feb- 
ruary 22nd, Washintgon's Birthday, parading through some of the 
principal streets making a handsome showing in the new uniforms 
recently adopted. 

A newspaper in speaking of the Jackson Day parade said: 

No set of men, I am proud to say, deserved more distinguished ' 

notice than the Company of State Fencibles under the command 
of Captain James Page, who mustered on this occasion, sixty men. 

On May 1st, the Company assembled for parade at the Anderson 
Hotel for the purpose of receiving and escorting to their quarters 
the 1st Company of Baltimore Light Infantry, Captain Latrobe, 
who stopped in this city over night on their way to New York. 
The Corps extended them every civility during their short stay; 
and they left for their destination the next morning. 

On May 5th, a new flag bearing the St^te and City Arms was 
presented to the Corps by Colonel Watmough in front of Inde- 
pendence Hall in the presence of Major General Cadwalador, and 
other officers and a large gathering of citizens. The Governor's 
Guards and Philadelphia Cadets were in the parade. 

The Company paraded on ]\Iay 7th, being Militia Day, when all 
citizens liable for Militia Duty were required by law to appear 

21 



22 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1827 

and answer roll call. The active Militia and their Citizens' Corps 
were not required to answer roll call, but parade separately. 
Agreeable to a resolution adopted by the Company at a monthly 
meeting to make an excursion to the Borough of Reading, and ar- 
rangements having been completed, the Company assembled at the 
house of John Chase on Monday morning, July 2nd, at 6 o'clock in 
full uniform with knapsacks. Later took up the line of march to 
Fairmoimt Dam, they embarked on the canal boat "Inde- 
pendence" for their destination, and late in the afternoon arrived 
at Pottsgrove. Here they disembarked for the night and were es- 
corted to their quarters by a Company of Volunteers under the 
command of Captain Polly. After a night's rest and a good break- 
fast on Tuesday morning they again embarked and arrived at Read- 
ing in the afternoon. They were received and escorted to their 
quarters by the Battalion of Reading Volunteers, under the com- 
mand of Major Betz. During the evening the members were enter- 
tained by the citizens of the Borough. On Wednesday, July 4th, 
the Fencibles took part in the celebration of the 51st Anniversary 
of American Independence with the Reading Volunteers. After 
marching through some of the principal streets of the town, they 
fired a National Salute. The ceremonies being ended the Com- 
pany partook of a sumptuous entertainment provided by the Read- 
ing Volunteers. On Thursday the Company, by invitation, visited 
the Hon. Joseph Heister, by whom they were entertained. A num- 
ber of other invitations were received. On Friday amid the ac- 
clamations of the citizens, the Corps embarked for home. Late in 
the afternoon they arrived at Norristown, where they disembarked 
for the night, and where they were received and entertained by the 
Hon. Philip S. Markley. On Saturday morning they again em- 
barked and in the afternoon landed at Fairraount Dam after an 
absence of one week. They then marched into the city to Congress 
Hall, where they were welcomed home by Gen. Robert Patterson 
and his staff. 

On July 21st, 1827, the following order was published: 

State Fencibles. 

A special meeting of the Company will be held on Thursday 
evening, the 24th July, at Anderson's Tavern, at 8 o'clock pre- 
cisely. The Court of Appeals will then finish its labours, and the 
list be placed in proper hands for collection. No excuses will be 



1827 ORDERS— CONGRATULATORY CARD 23 

heard after the adjournment of the Court. The accounts of each 
member will be finally closed up to the first day of July, 1827. 

The Drills (with fatigue-dress, caps, and roundabout) will be 
continued as follows: 

For the members below Vine Street: 

At Anderson's, Saturday, 26th July. 
" " Thursday, 31st July. 

" " Thursday, 7th August. 

" " Monday, 18th August. 

For those above Vine Street : 

At Gen. Snyder's, Monday, 28th July. 
" '■' " Monday, 4th August. 

" " " Thursday, 14th August. 

" " " Monday, 25th August. 

And every Monday evening (excepting the State nights of 
Meeting, in the months of September, October, November, and De- 
cember, at the above places, alternately. 

A member who is not thoroughly conversant with the manual, 
and perfectly equipped, will not be permitted to parade, and 
deficiencies on the part of the non-commissioned officers will not 
be overlooked. The correct performance of duty will insure 
praise; neglect and indifference will deserve and meet with cen- 
sure, no matter where it may be exhibited after this, it is not 
anticipated that any member will venture to assent he had not 
had sufficient notice of the Court of Appeals, Drills, and the 
System intended to be rigidly pursued, as well as of the Captain's 
determination to enforce a payment of the fines and a compliance 
with the Constitution and By-Laws. 

By order of 

Captain J. Page. 
George Binder, O. S. 

The following is a congratulatory card issued by the Captain : — 

The Company of the State Fencibles having returned from 
their excursion to Reading, your Captain embraces the earliest op-/ 
portunity to tender to his officers and men his thanks for their 
ready attention to orders and the discipline displayed; more espe- 
cially for their correct behavior as citizens of which he assures 
them he will long retain a proud and feeling recollection. The 
character which the Corps has acquired abroad, and the credit it 
has reflected upon its officers is to be attributed entirely to the 
pledge into which they entered and which they have so nobly re- 
deemed, and the Captain has no doubt that the kindness and 
hospitality of the Military and Citizens of Reading, Pottsgrove, 
and Norristown, will be remembered by the Company with the 



24 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1827 

enthusiasm it merits, and be repaid upon every occasion with the 
gratitude it deserves, and directs this to be recorded as a testi- 
monial of his satisfaction and esteem. 

James Page, 

Captain. 

On September 29th, tlie Corps having accepted an invitation 
from Colonel Torbert, commanding the 2nd Battalion of Bucks 
County Volunteers, to join them in a visit to Morristown, New Jer- 
sey, to be the guests of the Independent Battalion of Trenton City 
Volunteers, accordingly, the Company assembled in the morning, 
left the city on the Steamboat Trenton, with 6 rounds of cartridges 
for a salute to the New Jersey Volunteers on their arrival at Tren- 
ton. The line of march was then taken up for Morristown, where 
the Company joined the Bucks County Volunteers, commanded 
by General Rossell. After the parade they received every atten- 
tion from the citizens and soldiers of the town, and were specially 
entertained by the Governor of New Jersey, J. H. Williamson. 

On October 22nd, the Company assembled for target practice 
and in a heavy fall of rain marched to the quarters of Gen. Robert 
Patterson, in front of which they executed the manual of arms, 
and later returned to Heppard 's Hotel, postponing the target prac- 
tice until the 24th. In the evening at 7 o'clock the Company as- 
sembled at Heppard 's Hotel, marched upstairs and seated them- 
selves at the festive board. The Corps was honored with the pres- 
ence of General Patterson, General Cadwalader. Captain Dicken- 
son, and Charles Peat, paymaster of the Tompkins Blues of New 
York, and a number of invited guests. After the cloth was re- 
moved a number of toasts were drunk, which was interspersed with 
good singing and music. 

Promptly on October 24th, the Company assembled for the post- 
poned target firing, and marched to the quarters of General Pat- 
terson, where after partaking of a friendly glass, proceeded to the 
tavern on Poplar Lane. The distance for the firing was 80 yards.* 
The judges were Gen. Robert Patterson, Captain Dickenson, Peter 
A. Browne, and Mr. Samuel Saint. The prize, a medal with a suit- 
able inscription was won b.y Joseph Peters. After performing a 
number of evolutions the Company marched to the city and pro- 
ceeded to the quarters of General Patterson and spent an hour of 
social mirth and pleasure. 

♦The distance, 1913, 1,000 yards. 



1828 VISIT TO NEW YORK— PRINCETON— TOMPKINS BLUES 



'So 



On February 22nd, 1828, the Company having extended an invi- 
tation to the Montgomery Grays of Norristown, commanded by 
Captain Cloud, to participate in the celebration of Washington's 
Birthday, the Corps assembled in the morning to receive them. In 
the afternoon, after a parade, they were entertained by the Corps, 
in return for the civilities extended on their visit to Norristown. 
The Grays returned home late the same day. 

The Corps having decided to visit New York City, accordingly, 
on the morning of July 1st, they assembled 3 officers, 47 men, and 
Prank Johnson's band of 19 pieces. The Company left the city 
at 32 o'clock on the steamboat for Trenton, where they arrived 
late in the afternoon and on disembarking were received by General 
Roper and citizens of that town. After a short halt the line of 
march was taken up for Princeton, where they arrived late in the 
evening, and were met by a large escort commanded by Capt. John 
Lowry. An entertainment had been provided by the Military 
and citizens of that town. After a night's rest they arose early 
on Tuesday morning and after breakfast the line of march was 
taken up for Brunswick. Meeting with every attention on the road 
they arrived at New Brunswick where they were received bj'^ an 
escort of Volunteers commanded by Captain Duryea. They were 
later escorted to the Steamboat Swan on which they embarked for 
New York. Arriving on the afternoon of Wednesday the 3rd, they 
were received by Capt. J. L. Dickenson, William Taylor and John 
Van Nortrandt, a committee of officers on the part of the Regiment, 
and were escorted by that Regiment, commanded by Col. E. W. 
Ross, and the Tompkins Blues to the quarters provided at Masonic 
Hall on Broadway. Here the Corps found a splendid and sumptu- 
ous entertainment, and when seated, heartily regaled themselves 
in the Company of Colonel Ross, Captains Tompkins, Loyd, Cowan, 
and the committee and a number of distinguished officers until a 
late hour in the evening. 

On Thursday, July 4th, the Company paraded on the right of 
Colonel Ross' Regiment. When the parade was dismissed they 
filed into the chambers of the City Hall, where they were enter- 
tained by the Corporation. During their stay in New York they 
visited the Arsenal, where they were received by Commissary Gen- 
eral Muir. They also visited the Museum, and in the evening the 
theatres to which they had been invited b}' the proprietors. 



26 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1828 

On Friday evening they visited the Park Theatre, after which 
they partook of refreshments at the Morris City Hotel, and on 
Saturday morning passed an hour at Peales' Museum on Broad- 
way. In the afternoon the Company paraded in the park and 
were reviewed by Major General Morton, and a number of other 
officers, with the Hon. Wm. Paulding, the Mayor of the City, and 
members of the Corporation. The Company gave one of its famous 
drills comprising the manual of arms, the loading and tiring, wheel- 
ing and turning and other company movements. Captain Cowan's 
mounted troop did guard duty, keeping the ground clear and ren- 
dered important service. 

The Company prior to their departure on Monday were re- 
viewed by Brigadier General Manly and Staff on Broadway, and 
later were entertained by their host, Mr. Maynard, also by Mr. 
Charles Bailey, of "Washingjton Hall., They were then escorted to 
the boat by Capts. Jacob L. Dickenson, Wm. Taylor and John Van 
Nortrandt and the committee, with a number of officers of other 
commands, and the two Companies under Captains Tompkins and 
Loyd, and a concourse of citizens. 

On their arrival at the wharf a line was formed and the Com- 
pany marched aboard the boat. A parting volley was fired as the 
boat pushed off, which was answered by the Corps, who placed 
their hats on their muskets and waving them in the air, giving 
three hearty cheers for their kind entertainers. The visit of the 
Company to New York was one of infinite pleasure, and was long 
remembered and the kindness and hospitality exhibited by all 
classes of her citizens never forgotten. 

The Company on its arrival home was met and escorted to their 
quarters by a Battalion of Volunteer Companies under the com- 
mand of Capt. Joseph Murray, where after a short address from 
the Captain, the Company was then dismissed, and returned to 
their homes delighted with their excursion, and having upon every 
heart the warm impression created by the hospitality of the Military 
and Citizens of New York and New Jersey. 

Nothing in the way of parades took place during the remainder 
of the year, attention was only given to the drills. Generally after 
an extended trip there was relaxation from work for a time, the 
men preferring to talk over the many incidents that took place 
during their trip of pleasure. 



1828 QUARTERMASTER'S REPORT FOR NEW YORK TRIP 27 

Below is the Quartermaster's report for the expenses of the trip, 
and the reader will no doubt be surprised to leam in those days 
the purchasing power of a dollar \yas greater than at the present 
time. 

Bill No. 1. June 30th. 

Dinners for 47 men on Steamboat Burlington, ... $16 SlVi 

47 Passages for men, 23 50 

19 Dinners for musicians, 4 75 

Bill No. 2. July 1st. 

10 Mile Run, 46 breakfasts at $.25 each, $11 50 

19 breakfasts for musicians, 4 75 

Bill No. 3. July 1st. 

6 miles south of Brunswick, dinners for men, .... $21 00 

Musicians, 4 75 

Bill No. 4. July 2d. 

For conveying baggage from Trenton to Bruns- 
wick, $7 50 

Bill No. 5. July 2d. 

At Brunswick for suppers and breakfasts, $23 50 

Suppers, Musicians, breakfasts, 4 75 

Bill No. 6. July 2d. 

Steamboat Swan, 47 dinners, $.50 each, $23 50 

Dinners, musicians, 4 75 

Passages for men, 11 75 

Bill No. 7. 

For conveyance of baggage, $4 25 

Bill No. 8. 

For 4 days' board at Masonic Hall, $216 00 

For musicians, 42 50 

Washing for men, 21 00 

Bill No. 9. 

For mending bass drum, $4 00 

Bill No. 10. 

Washing for musicians and conveying baggage 

to boat, $10 00 

Bill No. 11. 

47 breakfasts for men, $17 62^4 

Breakfasts for musicians, 4 25 



28 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1829 

Bill No. 12. 

Passage from New York to Philadelphia, 48 men, $96 00 
Passage from New York to Philadelphia, 17 mu- 
sicians, 30 00 

Bill No. 13. 

For 47 dinners on Steamboat Trenton for men, . . $17 39 
For dinners on Steamboat Trenton for musicians, 4 75 

Expenses for men, $524 89 

Expenses for musicians, 105 31 

*Total expenses, $630 20 

On July 22nd, the Corps paraded to pay the last sad rites at the 
funeral of their late Comrade, Peter Ambruster. During this year, 
through the efforts of the band leader, Frank Johnson, the band 
was greatly increased by additions of several colored musicians, 
equipped at their own expense. 

The year 1829, for the first half, the minutes have no record 
of any active demonstrations by the Corps. The first noted is the 
parade of the Company on June 15th, to Germantown, to attend 
the funeral of their late Comrade, David M. Sleeth. 

On July 4th, was an excursion to Wilmington, Del., where they 
remained until the morning of the 6th. Upon their arrival home 
they were escorted to their quarters by the Philadelphia Grays, 
Capt. A. L. Roumfort. 

By way of contrast with the present condition of the Volunteers 
of Philadelphia, and as a matter of curiosity we copy from the 
Philadelphia Aurora, under date of July, 1829, a list of the Volun- 
teer Companies in existence in this city, with the number of their 
members. The majority of the companies named are long since 
defunct : 

Number of 
HOESE. Members. 

First City Troop, 20 

Second City Troop, 15 

Third City Troop (Washington Cavalry), 50 

85 
*The total cost for trip to Atlanta, Ga., in October, 1911, was $9,236.53. 



1829 VOLUNTEER COMPANIES IN PHILADELPHIA 29 

Number of 
Members, 

Artillery. 

State, 50 

Pennsylvania, 20 

Junior, •''0 

Jackson, -"^^ 

Phalanx -^0 

Washington Grays, ■"'•0 

230 

Infantry. 

Northern Liberty Volunteers, 40 

Penn Township Guards. 40 

Jackson Guards, 25 

Munroe Guards, 40 

State Guards, 40 

State Fencibles, First Company, 50 

State Fencibles, Second Company, 40 

Philadelphia Light Infantry, 30 

National Light Infantry, 30 

City Phalanx, 30 

Washington Blues, 30 

Lafayette Light Infantry, 30 

Lafayette Guards, 40 

Hibernia Greens, 30 

Caledonia Blues, 30 

Philadelphia Grays, 50 

Citizen Volunteers, 35 

Governor 's Guards, 25 

Montgomery Guards, 40 

Philadelphia Cadets, 35 

Washington Fencibles, 40 

Two Companies of Riflemen, 50 

Independent Volunteers, 35 

Pennsylvania Guards, 30 

865 

*Total, 1,180 

On October 19tli, they assembled and paraded for target firing, 

proceeded to the Richmond Hotel on the banks of the Delaware, 
thus ended the parades of a very dull year, 

December 14th, the Washington Fencibles merged into the State 
Fencibles, 



30 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1830 

On February 22nd, 1830, the Corps accepted an invitation from 
Colonel Murray and paraded with his Regiment and the Governor's 
Guards at Philadelphia. The Company then proceeded to the 
home of Mrs. Stott, who had invited them to partake of a colla- 
tion she had generouslj'- provided. Here they spent a verj' pleasant 
hour. 

On Monday morning. May 10th, the Corps assembled at the 
Armory (Military Hall) in full uniform. At 11 o'clock in the pres- 
ence of a large assemblage of ladies, and officers of some of the Vol- 
unteer Corps, General Patterson and other gentlemen. Colonel 
Watmough on behalf of the Company presented to Captain Page 
a handsome silver pitcher bearing the following inscription: 

THE STATE FENCIBLES 

TO THEIR CAPTAIN 

JAMES PAGE, ESQ., 

for his liong and devoted service and 
as a mark of their esteem. 

May 10th, 1830. 

The presentation address was in part as follows : 
Gentlemen of the Corps of State Fencibles: 

"You have appointed me to a very pleasant duty, I stand 
here the intermediary between parties in whose feelings it is 
honorable to participate, and whose intercourse both private and 
official I have long known to be distinguished. The former by 
every trait of the warmest personal friendship, the latter on the 
one part by an admirable obedience, the best testimony of the 
soldier's fortitude. On the other a disinterested zeal of which 
your actual discipline and high military appointment affords such 
an ample proof. 

Colonel Page, an attempt to portray the great, full character 
of our present object would be in vain, it is sufficiently depicted 
upon the animated countenances of the brave men who surround 
us, it is breathed warm from the hearts and while it expresses 
them in individual merit, as industrious citizens of a free and 
peaceful and prosperous republic, it plainly indicates the ardent 
propensity of virtuous minds, seeking to display itself by all 
chaste and honorable means. In the name then of these, your 
fellow citizens, and by a title still more dear to you, of these your 
fellow soldiers, I beg you accept Sir, from the State Fencibles 




A STATE FEXCIBLE OF lS2fi. 



1830 SPEECHES OF COLONELS PAGE AND WATMOUGH 31 

this sincere expression of their feelings toward you, and of the 
sense they entertain of your military character, and of all those 
qualities in you, which best adorns the walks of private life. In 
accepting this gift you have good cause to indulge an honest 
pride; it is intended to perpetuate the most fascinating of all 
associations, that of military brotherhood; it abounds with the 
richest impressions of sentiment and social feeling, it is tendered 
as their most appropriate pledge, and in years to come when the 
inane and noiseless foot of time shall find us all far down the 
vale of life, and perhaps have mingled the bones of many of us 
with our mother earth, then will it serve to recall the pleasing 
recollections of your early days, and return the melancholy, yet 
soothing sentiment of your youthful friendships. It now only re- 
mains for the humble individual who addresses you to hope that 
the fervid offering of his own thanks may be allowed to mingle 
itself with the present occasion. It is given with a soldier's 
frankness and he trusts will be received with a soldier's kind- 
ness. An acknowledgment for the honor this day corferred on 
him by a portion of his fellow citizens for whom h(; has ever 
cherished the most unfeigned regard, and whose high moral re- 
spectability is fit in all their acts." 

Colonel Page responds as follows: 

Colonel Watmouth : "No language I can call to my aid will 
be suflBcient to manifest the gratitude I owe you and the gen- 
erous companions of my 'Soldier Life,' for the kind expressions 
of your esteem, and this beautiful evidence of their affection. 
Neither do I flatter myself that I shall be able to do justice to 
the various feelings by which my bosom is inspired. Eloquence, 
even if I were master of its powers would, upon such an occa- 
sion, but feebly portray what is passing within. I seek not there- 
fore through the tongue fully to unfold the emotions of the heart, 
it is my duty, however, to address those who are the cause of the 
pleasure of this moment, so delicately increased by your pres- 
ence, and the fervid manner in which you have been pleased to 
make known their sentiments and convey your own. This act 
I will perform with the sincerity due to honest men and the 
plainess which best befits a soldier's ear. 

Members of the State Fencibles: With the Company you now 
compose originated my military career, and with it in all human 
probability will that career find its termination. Called upon 
when very young to assume its command I entered upon the task 
with a natural diffidence in my own ability, yet with a spirit alive 
to the performance of duty, and a heart devoted to its welfare 
and prosperity. Since that hour, a lapse of eleven years, I have 
occasionally felt its depression, frequently participated in its 
pleasures, and ever rejoiced in its successes and vicissitudes, the 
lot of every condition of life. 



32 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1830 

It has met and survived, business, disease and death have had 
their vpay, bearing some to foreign climes, breaking down the 
constitution of others and sending alas, not a few to that bourne 
from whence no traveler returns. Hearts that once throbbed with 
a soldier's pride beneath its uniform now beats no more, eyes 
that beamed bright with pleasure at the festive board are closed 
forever, and many a hand that was wont to welcome yours with a 
friendly grasp lies mouldering in the dust. Though numbers are 
scattered over the earth's broad surface, beyond the mountains, 
or on the waves, and many have passed from your ranks to be the 
quiet tenants of the peaceful tomb. 

Yet as a Corps you still exist seeming to bid defiance to the 
hand of time, and are now assembled under circumstances that 
may, well in the language of your intermediary, A Soldier of 
Battles, cause my heart to glow with honest pride, I accept 
brother soldiers, for such you surely are, with feelings I cannot 
describe, this splendid gift, and shall ever cherish it as one of the 
most valuable of all my temporal possessions. * * * 

In adverting to your general deportment and the occasion re- 
quires that I should do so, I will not descend to flattery, I know 
you to be superiors to its influence, and if you were not, this 
honest tribute would shame me in the use of a single remark I 
did not feel to be correct. In private life, industry, morality, and 
usefulness, mark your progress producing peace of mind, and a 
proper share of the world's comfort, and establishing the im- 
portant truth, that the character of the soldier is not incompatible 
to that of the citizen. As soldiers you are obedient to your su- 
periors, taking both pleasure and pride in the career of arms, 
strongly attached to each other, mindful of the reputation of the 
Corps, and considering that, as the special object of each man's 
care. , 

While in uniform your intercourse with the community is dis- 
tinguished for its conciliatory tone, you look upon rudeness to any 
of its members as offences to yourselves, and an insult to those 
laws which it is your duty at all times to support. * * * 

In your civil pursuits may you be completely successful and 
victorious, here may you enjoy every blessing man can own, and 
be called to a state of happiness hereafter, these are the wishes 
of your Captain, such the prayers of your friend, and whether 
commanding you in the one capacity, or associating with you 
in the other, he will never, while life abides, cease to remember 
the impressive incidents of this scene, they will be powerful in- 
centives to the performance of every duty, and shed a happy in- 
fluence over the remainder of his days." 

After the ceremonies the Company marched to the residence 
of Lieut. Amos Howell, and partook of refreshments, they then 



1830 VISIT TO EASTON—ALLENTOWN— BETHLEHEM 33 

marched through a number of streets in the city and the Northern 
Liberties, and by invitation of Lewis Pratt, attended the Chestnut 
Street Theatre in the evening. The Company was also invited to 
a collation by the proprietor of the P^our Nations Hotel, which was 
respectfully declined. 

Early on Monday morning, June 21st, the Corps assembled at 
the Armory for the purpose of visiting Easton. They marched to 
Chestnut Hill, and from there they took stages for their destina- 
tion. Arriving on Tuesday afternoon they were met by the P]aston 
Volunteers, commanded by Captain Shrie, and escorted to their 
quarters. During their stay at Easton, every attention was paid 
them, nothing was left undone by the soldiers and citizens. A 
public ball was given in their honor which was attended by the 
leading citizens and their ladies. Richard Dorff, a meml>er, was 
taken suddenly ill and died while at Easton. 

On the return the Company visited Allentown and Bethlehem, 
where every effort was put forward by the citizens to make their 
short stay at these places pleasant. On the 26th, amid the accla- 
mation of the citizens the Pencibles embarked on a Durham Canal 
Boat for Trenton, where they arrived on the morning of the 28th. 
Here they took the steamboat for home, arriving in the afternoon, 
and were escorted to their quarters by the several companies com- 
manded by Captains Murray, Riley, Baker, Edwards and Koehler. 

The Doylestown Intelligencer thus notices the appearance of 
Captain Page's Company of State Fencibles, which sojourned a 
short time at that place, on their march to Easton : 

This company of volunteers from Philadelphia, under the com- 
mand of Captain Page, arrived at Field 's tavern, Doylestown, 
early on Tuesday morning last, accompanied by Johnson 's justly 
celebrated band of music. After breakfast. Captain Page formed 
his men in proper order for parade, and after going through with 
very great precision, a variety of evolutions, marched them 
through the principal streets of our village, the band playing a 
number of favorite tunes, in their best style. Altogether, it was ' 

a display but rarely witnessed by our citizens, and the most un- 
qualified praise was bestowed upon them. Captain Page cer- 
tainly deserves great credit for the excellent manner in which he 
drills his company, and the privates, as well as the officers, ap- 
peared to have a just pride in going through their exercises cor- 
rectly. The citizens of the town volunteered to pay for the enter- 
tainment of the company at Fields', and they departed about 
eight 'clock for Easton. 

3 



34 ONE HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1830 

On October 4th, the Company assembled at the Armory for pa- 
rade in honor of the triumph of civil liberty in France. The Na- 
tional Grays, the Jackson Guards, Lafayette Light Infantry, and 
Fencibles, all under the command of Captain Page marched to the 
house of the French Consul, John M. Chapron, No. 15, S. 8th 
Street, %vhere a beautiful silk tri-colored flag was presented to 
the Fencibles by his daughter. Miss Emilie Chapron. 

They then marched to Walnut Street to join the Brigade, and 
from there to Arch Street to join the Division for the parade, and 
after the parade the Company marched to Congress Hall* and 
partook of a collation by invitation from the proprietor. 

The following poem "For the Pioneer" was dedicated to Miss 
Emilie Chapron by Captain Page at the occasion of the presentation 
of a tri-colored flag to the State Fencibles. 

Harl! to that shovt, a thousand tongues 

Their acclamation raise, 
And greet the glorious tri-color 

With freemen's purest praise. 

And steady stands, with gazing eyes 

The long extended line; 
Looldng ^ipon that standard fair, 

Of Liberty the sign. 

A7id bayonets glistening in the sun 

Which splendid beams on high; 
Throiv up from earth the rays again, 

Bright flashing to the sky. 

Hail! Flag of France, the thrilling heart 

Leaps out to meet thy reign; 
And patriot prayers, buried long, 

Seek utterances again. 

Beneath thy folds which quiet droop 

So gently stirs the air, 
Beauty and innocence are placed: 

What sight on earth so fair. 

Long, long thy spell o'er Freedom cast 

And virtue float to save; 
Sink not 'neath despotism's blast, 

But ever shield the brave. 

♦Congress Hall, see page 46. 




CAPTAIN HARTMAX KUHX. 



1830 NEWSPAPER CLIPPING— RESIGNATION— ELECTION 35 

A newspaper of the day said: 

Saturday, October 9, 1830. 

We insert in our columns to-day an account of the celebration 
on Monday last, taken from the United States Gazette. It will be 
found worthy of perusal and we therefore readily call atten- 
tion to it: When taken in connection with what we are about 
to say, we hope the curiosity of our many friends will be amply 
gratified. Upon no occasion within our recollection did the vol- 
unteers of the Division obtain so much credit. The turnout was 
full, effective and complete ; the general appearance of the men 
such as met with marked approbation, and their conduct during 
a long and fatiguing march, unexceptional. With extended pla- 
toons in crowded streets accurate marching was not to be ex- 
pected, yet, many of the companies under great difficulties suc- 
ceeded in winning applause from the spectators. The country 
Troops, both of Infantry, Cavalry, and Riflemen maintained their 
character for discipline and were most cordially received by their 
city friends. After the Division had been dismissed we noticed 
several of the companies parading separately. Among the number 
Captain Miles' Corps of National Grays with their banner, and 
Captain Page's Company of State Fencibles with the superb tri- 
colored standard presented to them. The latter Corps was most 
handsomely received and gratuitously entertained by Messrs. 
Wm. E. and Zenas Wells, at Congress Hall, South Third Street. 

On December 20th, the Company paraded to give Lieut. Peter 
Fritz an opportunity to make his last parade with the Corps, from 
whose ranks he was about to retire, to accept the command of the 
National Grays. Lieutenant Fritz joined the Corps in 1819, and 
was a faithful and efficient officer. 

Copy of Resignation. 

To the Officers and Members of the Corps of State Fencibles. 

Gentlemen : — Circumstances of which you are aware has induced 
this, my resignation ; the many honorable distinctions received at 
your hands M'ill be ever held in grateful remembrance. Which to- 
gether with the many days of soldiers glory spent on excursions, 
will I trust like "Auld JL-ang Syne" be never forgot. With my 
best wishes for your future prosperity, I take my leave subscrib- 
ing myself, 

Your friend and humble servant, 

Peter Fritz. 

On January 10th, 1831, an election was held in the Armory for 
Lieutenants, Wm. Ripperger was elected 1st Lieut., Joseph Oli- 
ver, 2nd Lieut., and John Barras. 3rd Lieut. 



36 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1831 

On April 25th, the Company assembled, in the evening, in full 
uniform for the purpose of presenting to their late Lieutenant 
Fritz, a silver pitcher as a mark of their esteem. The Company 
was honored by the presence of the Mayor of the City ; Judge King, 
and a large assemblage of ladies and gentlemen. 

The pitcher was engraved as follows: 

Presented 
BY THE Company of State Fencibles 

TO THEIR LATE LIEUTENANT 

PETER FRITZ 

AS A MARK OF THEIR FRIENDSHIP AND ESTEEM 

April 18th, A. D. 1831. 

Captain Page made the presentation in his usual eloquent style 
as follows: 

Sir: 

' ' The members of the Company of State Fencibles have directed 
me to hand you in their name this testimony of their esteem 
and regard. I will not while I am in the performance of this 
pleasing duty be considered at all amiss, if I briefly advert to 
your association with the Company, * * * 

As far back as the year 1819, you came into their ranks as a 
private actuated by that pure and honorable desire which marks 
the character of our volunteer service; entering with uncommon 
zeal into all that concerned the welfare of the Corps. * * • 

In requital for your services you were promoted and passed 
through several grades until you reached that of 1st Lieutenant, 

* * * For years we have journeyed a military path together, 
it is my pride and pleasure now to say that in all that time I 
met with no circumstance which in the slightest degree weakened 
my regard as an officer or lessened my esteem for you as a man. 

* * * Not many weeks ago you were requested to assume the 
command of a highly honorable and well-disciplined body of 
men, "The National Grays," although I regretted the circum- 
stance which was to deprive me of your services and occasion the 
Company the loss of a valuable officer, I unhesitatingly acceded 
to your request to withdraw, because I knew you deserved promo- 
tion and would handsomely wear the honor of command, the like 
feelings actuated the members, (I should say friends) by whom 
you are surrounded. * * * 



1831 SPEECH— BOSTON CITY GUARD— PARADE 37 

I am deeply indebted to the Fencibles for having selected me 
as their .organ of communication. In the name of the officers 
and members of that corps, I tender you this mark of their 
remembrance of your devoted services and a proof of the kind 
feelings which they entertain for you, both as a soldier and a 
citizen. ' ' 

Captain Fritz made the following reply: 

Captain James Page, 

Sir: — For the kindness in which you have conveyed the opinions 
of my late associates in arms, and your own, be pleased to accept 
my thanks and the assurance that no circumstance can obliterate 
the remembrance of the happy days of our soldier life, or inter- 
cept the current of that friendly feeling which has been running 
in so smooth a channel for so many years. In all our intercourse, 
both as soldiers and as friends, we have ever experienced that in- 
terchange of sentiment which is most gratifying to the heart of 
man. In our own career as soldiers, frankness and fellowship have 
ever been our companions, and as companions no untoward circum- 
stance has ever happened to create any painful feelings. * * * 
I accept this gift in the true spirit in which it is offered, a 
pledge between us of a firm and fast friendship. It shall remind 
me of my duties as a soldier and the remembrance due to friends, 
in the performance of the one, I shall not be unmindful of the 
other, and trust that your civil and military career may be long 
continued with the bright and beautiful accompaniments it was 
my happy lot to share in common with you in the days of "Auld 
Lang Syne: ' ' 

Two parades were made by the Corps in the first half of this 
year, one on Washington's Birthday and the other on the Anni- 
versary in May. 

During the month of Jime, the Boston City Guards encamped 
on the West side of the Schuylkill River, opposite Lemon Hill. 
The Fencibles were invited to pay them a visit and give an exhibi- 
tion drill. Accordingly on the 16th, the Company spent the day 
with the Boston City Guards, and in the evening held a combined 
dress parade. The pleasant friendship there cemented, lasted 
many years. 

On July 4th, Independence Day was celebrated by the Corps, at 
Bristol where the annual dinner was held. A number of invited 
guests were present. 

On September 15th, the Company assembled for parade, in the 
morning, to receive the Easton Washington Grays, who were mak- 



38 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1831 

ing a flying visit to this city. The Corps entertained them, and 
together in the evening visited several places of amusement. They 
left the city early the following morning. 

On October 18th, was the target tiring at Yellow Cottage,* after 
which the\^ were entertained by W. C. Rudman, Esq. 

♦Yellow Cottage, a famous place of resort in Southwark, and occupied a lot of 
ground extending from Second to Front Street. It was below the present Morris 
Street. A street called Cottage Street was afterward laid' out through the centre of 
the property. 



CHAPTER IV. 

1832—1838. 

NEW UNIFORMS — VISIT TO BOSTON ORDERS — VISIT TO SALEM, PROVI- 
DENCE, EASTON, NEVV^ARK, PATERSON — JOHNSON 's CELEBRATED 

BAND THE BOSTON TIGERS — VISIT TO NEW BRUNSWICK — VISIT OF 

BOSTON FUSILEERS — NEW UNIFORMS — PARADES — DRILLS — VISIT OF 
ALBANY BURGESS CORPS — VISIT TO ALBANY — VISIT OF WASHINGTON 
GRAYS — VISIT TO TROY. 

On Febniarj^ 6th. 1832, an election was held far 4 Lieutenants, 
with the following result: — 1st Lieut., Joseph Oliver; 2nd Lieut., 
Joseph B. Freeman ; 3rd Lieut., Wm. C. Rudman ; 4th Lieut., 
Wm. King. The Company at this period was in a very healthy con- 
dition, having over seventy members on the roll. 

On February 22nd. the Corps united in the Centennial Parade 
and the celebrated "Washington's Birthday. 

On Monday, March 12th, the Corps assembled for their Spring 
parade, they mustered 4 officers and 53 men. In the morning they 
were entertained at the house of Mrs. Sarah Moose in the South- 
wark, and in the afternoon by Mr. McMakin in the Northern Lib- 
erties. Early in the evening lunch was served at the Captain's 
residence, and the evening passed at the Chestnut Street Theatre, 
on invitation from the managers, Messrs. Rowbottom, Maywood and 
Pratt. 

In the month of April, the Company assembled at the Armory 
in the morning to attend the funeral of their late Lieutenant, 
Amos Howell. A parting volley was tired at the grave, and the last 
sad rites were paid him. In the afternoon the Company was re- 
viewed in front of the United States Bank by Col. Richard ]\I. 
Johnson, of Kentucky, the Corps on this occasion paraded 50 men. 

The Corps having decided to visit Boston, they adopted a fatigue 
uniform, consisting of a white roundabout, with standing collar 
hooked in front and with a single row of covered buttons, and 
whit« pants to be worn with the jacket, and each member to be 

39 



40 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1832 

provided with a valise edged with red. Great preparations were 
made for this trip as it was expected to consume considerable time. 
Great attention was paid to the drills of the Company, in order to 
reflect credit on themselves and the City of Philadelphia. 

On May 28th, the Company paraded in honor of the anniversary 
of the Corps, the 26th coming on Saturday, which was a very in- 
convenient day, the parade was deferred until Monday ; the Corps 
paraded 4 officers and 59 muskets. 

Boston Excursion. 
Orders : , 

The drills will be held every evening (Sunday excepted) at Mili- 
tary Hall, in fatigue caps and white jackets. 

The line of march will be taken up, about Monday, the 11th of 
June, of which due notice will be given. The men must be ready 
by an early hour in the morning of that day. Each man will be 
required (in addition to his winter uniform) to furnish himself 
with the following articles, neatly packed in his knapsack, viz: 

One cloak or blanket, two pair white pantaloons, one military, 
one plain; one fatigue cap, one white roundabout with standing 
collar, one pair woolen stockings, one pair of shoes, extra set of 
belts, one black silk cravat or stock, and as many shirts and col- 
lars as he can conveniently carry. , 

The men are requested not to overload the knapsacks with use- 
less articles; let them be supplied only with those absolutely nec- 
essary. Trunks are prohibited. 

A drill in winter uniform will take place at the Hall on Friday 
evening, 8th of June. Each man must be in his place fully equip- 
ped. The band will also attend fully equipped. 

The Paymaster is ready to receive the instalments from those 
members who have not yet paid up. 

By order of the Captain, 

And'w Magee, 

June 4, 1832. First Sergeant. 

EULES AND EEGULATIGNS 
FOR THE 

State Fencibles — Boston Excursion. 

Armory, Philada., June 11, 1832. 

Section I — Formation. 

Art. 1. — The formation will be that of a company divided into 
platoons and sections. 

Art. 2. — Each section shall be under the charge of its proper offi- 
cers, as well in quarters as on parade, and they will 
be held responsible for the deportment of the men. 



1832 VISIT TO BOSTON— ORDERS 41 

Art. 3. — The guide of each section shall be Chief of the Mess, 
for the better preservation of order while in bar- 
racks. 

Section II — Boutine of Duty. 

No. 1. — At day dawn morning signal. 

No. 2. — Five minutes after, "Reveille" the officers and men 
will rise — roll call. 

No. 3. — At 5 o'clock general fatigue; quarters cleaned up; sec- 
tion drills by the proper officers. 

No. 4. — At half -past 6, ' ' Peas on Trencher. ' ' 

No. 5. — At half-past 7, Dress call — all dress in full uniform. 

No. 6. — At ]5 minutes before 8, assembly, Guard if necessary 
placed. 

No. 7. — At 15 minutes after 8, Assembly, Company parade. 

No. 8. — At 1 o'clock, Roast Beef. 

No. 9. — At 20 minutes before sunset, dress call; 15 minutes after 
evening parade; Retreat. 

No. 10. — Supper forthwith. 

No. 11. — Ten o'clock, Tattoo. The signals may be varied by order. 

Section III. 

Art. 1. — No person will be allowed to leave the Barracks without 
a permit from, the Commander. No one of whatever 
rank shall pass the night out of the Barracks with- 
out a written permission from him. Every soldier 
returning into Barracks from furlough, must report 
himself immediately to the Sergeant of his section — 
the officers to the Chief. 

Art. 2. — No one will visit any public house of entertainment, un- 
less absolutely necessary, and by express permission, 
and will pass as little time there as possible. 

Art. 3. — No officer or soldier will appear out of quarters with- 
out uniform, unless by express permission. 

Art. 4. — No one will be excused from duty on the plea of sick- 
ness, unless he has a certificate from the Surgeon. 

Art. 5. — All lights must be extinguished at tattoo, except at 
Headquarters. 

Art. 6. — Musicians and all attendants are subject to the general 
regulations. 

Section IV — Duties of Officers. 

Art. 1. — The Lieutenants will each in rotation act as officer of the 
day for 24 hours, commencing at 8 A. M. The duty 
of the officer will be to take general charge of the 
Company; he will be held responsible for its good 



42 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1832 

order while in barracks; he will superintend the 
mounting of the guard when necessary, and cause 
sentries to be instructed in their duties. He will 
at retreat give out the countersign, and change it at 
tattoo, always previously communicating it to the 
Commander and no other. He will report himself at 
Headquarters for duty immediately before his turn 
commences, and report all that may have occurred 
while it continued ; together with a list of the per- 
sons who have done guard duty, with the amount of 
such duty while he was officer of the day. 
Art. 2. — Sergeants to keep an exact roll of his section, noting the 
degree of guard and other duty performed by each 
individual. To keep an account of leave of absence, 
and for what length of time to each member, and 
whether he returns in season. To see that the arms 
of his section, and the quarters are in good order; 
to note any deficiency in the uniforms and make a 
return of the same to the Commanding Officer im- 
mediately after morning parade. They will keep a 
record of all orders received ; they will also (each 
for his section) make contracts for washing, and 
keep an account of the articles delivered, and see 
that tbey are duly returned. 

Section V. — Salutes. 

Art. 1. — When in uniform the officers shall salute each other by 
touching the cap with the right hand, without any 
inclination of the head or body. Non-commissioned 
officers, musicians and privates, shall salute all 
commissioned officers in the same manner. The sa- 
lute shall be returned by the officers, fhey shall at 
all times when in uniform, and when they approach 
to speak to an officer, or are approached by, or 
spoken to, raise the right hand to the cap and keep 
it there during the conversation which will be short; 
when not in uniform the officers will salute each 
other by raising the hat or cap from the head and 
uncover. The inferior will cover last. 

Art. 2. — Sergeants M'hen receiving orders from or reporting to an 
officer, will briskly bring the left hand across the 
body and strike the musket a little below the shoul- 
der and keep it there till the conversation is ended. 
By order of the Captain, 

Magee, 
First Sergt. 



1832 NEWSPAPER ACCOUNT— PRINCETON— NEW YORK 43 

On the 8th day of June the Corps united in the Grand Parade 
for the reception of General Andrew Jackson. 

On June 11th, the Company assembled at the Armory^ fully 
equipped for their excursion to New York, Boston, Roxbury, Salem, 
Providence, Easton, Newark and Paterson. This trip consumed 
three weeks, and their progress was marked by a continuous ova- 
tion, the traveling was done in stage coaches and canal boats. 

The Inquirer, a newspaper of the day, said : 

This manly and handsome Corps of Philadelphia volunteers 
took their departure on Monday, at twelve o'clock, on their long 
contemplated trip to Boston. The company mustered in its ut- 
most strength ; the officers and privates all appeared in splendid 
new uniforms, provided for the occasion, and preceded by John- 
son's celebrated band, presented a very creditable and military, 
appearance. Captain Page never looked better. The wharves in 
the neighborhood of Chestnut Street were lined with spectators, 
sevral thousand persons having assembled. The boat parted from 
the wharf amidst the cheers of the surrounding multitude. She 
passed a short distance down the river, and returned, the Fenci- 
bles presenting themselves in a line to their friends on the Phila- 
delphia shore of the river. They were saluted with three cheers 
as the boat passed up. The cheers were heartily responded to by 
the passengers, who waved their hats and the flag of the com- 
pany. Refreshments had been provided for the command prior 
to their departure by L. W. Ryckman, of the Independence Hotel. 

On the arrival of the Command at Princeton they were escorted 
through that city by John Lowry's handsome Corps. At New 
Brunswick they were met by some Volunteers. At New York the 
Tompkins Blues escorted them through the city after serving din- 
ner at Tammany Hall. At Providence, the Light Infantry, His 
Excellency, Governor Arnold, the Mayor, and others, all did their 
share to make the short stay of the Fencibles as pleasant as pos- 
sible. 

During the passage from New York by steamer to Providence, 
an accident happened in the Sound, which created considerable 
alarm for a short time. Indications pointed to a fire on the boat. 
Some time elapsed before it could be traced, but on cutting up one 
of the berths it was found to proceed from beneath the boiler, near 
the bottom of the boat. On the arrival at Providence they pro- 
ceeded in stages and carriages to Boston, arriving about 11 o'clock 
at night. 



44 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCTBLES 1832 

The following incident took place on the arrival at Boston. The 
band they took with them consisted of 25 pieces and had been se- 
lected by Frank jJohnson, the leader of the band connected with 
the Corps. All were colored men and were equipped with green 
uniforms trimmed with gold. 

On the arrival in Boston the Fencibles were waited on by a com- 
mittee from their escort, who stated that if the colored band was 
allowed in the line the white bands would refuse to parade. Cap- 
tain Page not desiring to interfere with the arrangements, wisely 
ordered the band to march to their quarters, and await the ar- 
rival of the Corps. After the escort reached the hotel and was dis- 
missed, an immense crowd assembled. It was then that Captain 
Page gave ''Johnson" his cue. Johnson being a perfect master 
of his instrument, his band all experts, and at the time having 
a remarkable reputation for their performances, still burning un- 
der the slight they had received, only waited for the chance to be 
revenged and now it came. He filed his band on the porch in 
front of the hotel and, in the words of Captaiu Page, "Frank never 
got so much music out of his bugle before." They spent three 
hours on that porch, and before they were through had en- 
tirely captivated the ' ' Yankees. ' ' and were the victors. The Fenci- 
bles heard no more protests. Before midnight on that memorable 
day, Frank Johnson was as good a man as the IMayor of Boston. It 
may be well to state that the leader, Frank Johnson, was a mulatto, 
highly educated, and xevy gentlemanly in his deportment, and 
very highly respected by all who knew him. This incident added 
greatly to his popularitj^ as a musician. His band was attached to 
the Corps for many years after. 

A noted musician said : 

' * The Philadelphia State Fencibles prior to my contract with 
them on June 27, 1843, had on a number of occasions employed 
Frank Johnson's colored band. Race feeling -was then pro- 
nounced, and bitter, and although Johnson had a band which few 
could equal, he often suffered from this fooUsh and ill-natured 
prejudice. On one occasion the Fencibles made a visit via New 
York to Boston. The New York bands refused to play on the 
escort if Johnson's band remained in line. Their services were 
dispensed with for the day. The Boston bands got word of it 
and they struck also. Johnson's band was relieved from service, 
but they played at the hotel and rather surprised the Bostonians 
with their abilitv. 



1832 JOHNSON'S BAND— PRIZE MUSKET DRILLS 4:, 

Johnson was a good-natured, gentlemanly fellow. Many of my 
musical confreres, alas! now dead and gone, have partaken of 
his hospitality. He would give dinners to his numerous musical 
friends, but always made a mark of distinction by not taking 
a seat at his own table." 

Johnson, with his band, in 1837, visited England and the Conti- 
nent and returned in the Summer of 1838. He died in this city 
in the Spring of 1844 and had a very large funeral. He was buried 
in St. Thomas Churchyard. 

During their staj^ in Boston the Corps was entertained by the 
Boston Light Guard, at a banquet, many prominent persons were 
present. The Light Guard emblem was a tiger's head and they 
were known as the Boston Tigers. Boasting of their great stay- 
ing qualities, they signified their intentions of putting the Fencibles 
quietly to bed, however, their ammunition kicked and before the 
night was over the "Quakers" were busy laying the "Tigers" 
carefully away. Ever after, the insignia, the "Tiger's head," 
which the Fencibles captured has been worn by them, and for 
many years adorned their breastplate. The strength of the Com- 
pany on this excursion was 4 officers, 57 muskets and a band of 25 
musicians. 

On June 28th, a Prize jMusket was presented to the Corps by 
Captain Yohe, of the Easton Grays, and on July 24th they took 
part in the parade in honor of Charles Carroll, of Carrolltown, 
Md., the last of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, 

On February 22nd, 1833, the Corps paraded for the first time 
in their new uniforms and took part in the laying of the cornerstone 
of the Washington IMonument. 

On April 20th, there was a special drill. Gen. John H. Eaton, 
Secretar\' of War under President Jackson, being present. 

Resolutions of regret were passed on j\Iay 13th, at the resigna- 
tion of Maj. Gen. Thomas Cadwalader, commanding the First 
Division. 

On j\Iay 26th, the Anniversary Parade took place, and on the 
27th, the Corps proceeded to GermantOAvn for target firing and 
were entertained at Chew's INIansion. On Independence Day, 
July 4th, the Annual Dinner took place at Bristol. On the 8th, 
the Easton Grays arrived at Schuylkill Locks and were received by 
the Fencibles. The Tompkins Blues of New York arrived in this 



46 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1834 

city on the 16th, and were escorted to Bush Hill* for camp. On 
the 22nd, a Military dinner was held at Military Hall in honor of 
the Tompkins Blues. 

On August 17th, the Corps escorted the Governor's Guards of 
New Brunswick, New Jersey, on their return home. The Fall 
target firing was held at Searles Hotel on the Banks of the Dela- 
ware. 

In the beginning of the year 1834, much attention was given to 
the weekly drills, and on May 26th, the usual Anniversary Parade 
was made in the afternoon. In the evening they met at Congress 
Hall,t in citizens dress to partake of a collation. 

On the morning of July 3rd, the Corps assembled at the Arm- 
ory for the purpose of taking a trip to New Brunswick. 

Previous to leaving they marched to the quarters of the Cap- 
tain, where they were presented with a beautiful silk flag by 
Colonel Browne, an honorary member of the Corps, as a tribute 
of his esteem and admiration for the Corps, after which they took 
up the line of march and embarked on the steamboat for Trenton, 
Arriving there in the afternoon they marched to their destination. 
The evening was spent visiting old friends of their former visit. 
On the morning of the 4th, they paraded in honor of the day; 
in the afternoon they sat doAvn to their annual dinner, with a large 
number of guests. Late in the afternoon they took up tha line 
of march for Trenton, where they passed the night. On the morn- 
ing of the 5th, took the boat for home where they arrived early in 
the afternoon. The strength of the Corps on this occasion was 
3 officers and 40 men. 

On November 9th, the Company paraded for their Fall target 
firing at Searles Hotel on the Delaware, above the glass house, 
where a collation was served after the firing. 

The first parade on record for the year 1835, was in Summer 
uniform, when the Corps proceeded to Cooper's Point for drill 
exercise. After spending the afternoon in Company and Battalion 
movements, they returned to the city, having crossed to Kensing- 
ton, and marched from there to the Armory, 

On Jime 1st, an election was held in the Armory for Field Offi- 
cers of the 108th Regiment, to which the Fencibles were attached, 

*Bush was north of the Columbia (now Reading Railroad) to Green Street, extending 
from Schuylkill— Third (now Twentieth) to Schuylkill— Sixth (now Seventeenth) Street. 

tCongress Hall Hotel in 1830 was on the east side of Third Street, above Chestnut. 
This house, either at that time or shortly afterward, had a front on the north side 
of Chestnut Street, east of Third, the building being in the shape of an L. 



1835 BOSTON FUSILEERS— FUNERAL— ELECTION 47 

which resulted in the election of James Page as Colonel; Wm. C. 
Patterson as Lieutenant Colonel ; W. W. "Weeks as 1st Major ; and 
Charles Morgan as 2nd Major. 

On June 20th, the Boston Fusileers having arrived were en- 
camped on the west side of the Schuylkill above the upper bridge. 
A delegation from the Fencibles waited upon them and arrange- 
ments were speedilj^ made for their entertainment. The Company- 
was assembled at 6.30 P. M. and several squads were detailed to 
do guard duty that night at camp, while the visitors were being 
entertained in the city. Lieutenant Morgan as officer of the guard. 

On the 21st, the officers and a number of the members spent the 
day with the Fusileers, and that evening and the following day 
the members were shown the places of interest in the city. Early 
on the evening of the 22nd, they were escorted to the City, and were 
granted the use of the Armory of the National Grays, on Dock 
Street. On the morning of the 23rd, at 4 o'clock the Corps as- 
sembled to escort them to their boat. They then took the Fusi- 
leers to Military' Hall where breakfast was served, after which they 
were taken to the Tremont House, and from there marched to the 
boat where they departed amid the cheers of the spectators. 

On July 3rd, the Corps having extended an invitation to the 
New York Light Guards, Captain Vincent; to visit our city on 
'July 4th, the Corps assembled in Summer uniform to receive the" 
visitors who reached the city at 5 o'clock. The escort consisted 
of 15 Companies. Upon their arrival, after marching through sev- 
eral streets, the visitors were taken to their quarters in ]\Iilitary 
Hall. They were entertained in the evening by the members in 
small squads, visiting places of amusement. 

On the morning of the 4th, the Corps and their guests paraded 
and were then dismissed until 3 o'clock at which time the Light 
Guards were to dine with them at the Armory. On the afternoon 
of the 5th, the Light Guards departed for home. 

On July 12th, the Company paraded to attend the funeral of 
Henry Piper, a soldier of the Revolution, and fired the accustomed 
volleys over his grave. 

On August 17th, the following Lieutenants were elected: — 1st 
Lieut., Joseph Oliver; 2nd Lieut., Charles C. Morgan; 3rd Lieut., 
John Moore ; 4th Lieut., George W, Saint. 

During the year the Corps made a change in their uniform, con- 
sisting of a navy blue cloth coat, ^ long, double breasted, edged 



48 ONE HUNDRED YEAES AVITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1835 

with buff cashmere, showing two rows of buttons, collar faced with 
buff cashmere embroidered with silver lace, the back of the collar 
blue with silver cross, the shirts turned up with buff cashmere 
with 4 silver embroidered lace holes with silver cross on the but- 
tons, slashed cuffs with silver embroidered laee holes correspond- 
ing with the shirts. Pantaloons sky blue with buff cashmere stripe 
l}i inches wide, cut with fly front and strapped under the boot. 
In Summer to be of white beaversteen, yellow shoulder knots, white 
webbing belts, cap high and of conical shape blue cloth, a semi- 
circular plate or gloria in front with United States Arms in the 
centre. October 26th, was the first parade in the new uniform. 
The last Monday in October was the regular annual target firing, 
accordingly, the Company assembled in the morning and marched 
to the Yellow Cottage down in the neck. The prizes to be fired for 
were, a gold medal presented by Lieutenant Lorde of the New York 
Light Guards, a prize musket presented by the Washington Grays 
of Easton, and a gold medal presented by the officers of the Corps. 

On March 8th, 1836, in the evening the Company assembled for 
the purpose of attending a military reception given by the Cap- 
tain at his residence on Walnut Street, in honor of the anniversary 
of his birth. They were accompanied by Frank Johnson's band. 

On May 2nd, the Corps assembled at one o 'clock for their Spring 
parade, and after marching through some of the principal streets 
they proceeded to the house of Mr. Goldey in Kensington, where 
a collation was spread for them. 

On May 30th, the Corps made a parade in the afternoon in 
Winter uniform, with the Regiment, through some of the principal 
streets of the city. 

On June 9th, the Company assembled at 12 o'clock, and after a 
short parade marched to Powelton, on the west side of the Schuyl- 
kill River between Market Street and the upper bridge, for target 
firing. The prize, a musket, was won by Thomas M. Richards. 

On July 4th, the Corps indulged in their annual Independence 
Day dinner at Bristol, with a number of invited guests. 

On August 4th, the Corps assembled at the Armory for the pur- 
pose of receiving the Albany Burgess Corps, who were about to 
visit the city and were to be the guests of the Corps during their 
stay. After their arrival they were escorted through the streets; 
they then proceeded to Mr. Browers' where the Company had pro- 
vided a collation, after which they were escorted to their quarters. 



1836 TARGET FIRING— ELECTION— DRILL 49 

In the evening the members assembled and took charge of the A. 
B. C.'s and entertained them separately, some going to the theatre 
and some to other places of amusement in the city. 

On the 5th, they were taken in a body to the U. S. Mint, Navy 
Yard, Academy of Fine Arts, Natural Science, and other places 
of interest, and during the day they were entertained at sev- 
eral hotels in the city. In the evening they again separated into 
small parties. On the morning of the 6th, they left for home well 
pleased with their visit to the Quaker City. 

October 31st, was the annual target firing. In the afternoon 
they marched to the Yellow Cottage down in the neck. The prizes 
were two gold medals and two muskets. After the firing the Com- 
pany returned to the Armory and were dismissed. Again as- 
sembling in citizens dress they marched to Browers' and sat down 
to a splendid dinner. Toasts were given and sentiments were 
numerous and at midnight "Auld Lang Syne" was sung and the 
Company retired. 

The Corps having received an invitation to attend the reception 
given by the Albany Burgess Corps on February 22nd, 1837, a 
number of the members visited that city for the occasion. 

On March 27th, an election was held at the Armorj^; 3rd Lieut. 
John Moore was advanced to 2nd Lieut., and Samuel Goldey to 
3rd Lieut. 

On April 17th, the Corps made a street parade, and again on 
]\Iay the 15th, they assembled for parade and crossed the river to 
Camden where they indulged in Battalion and Company drill. 
They then crossed to Kensington and returned to the Annory. 

On June 26th, they again visited Camden for drill, and after the 
drill, tliey recrossed the river and marched to the Armory and 
were dismissed. These drills were often in citizens dress without 
arms. The Fencibles seemed determined to increase tlie efficiency 
of the Corps in its field exercises. For that purpose they adopted 
a gray fatigue jacket to be worn on such occasions. 

July 18th, the Corps was present at the launching of the Great 
Ship "Pennsylvania." 

Again on September 25th, the Company assembled for parade, 
after the marching, they proceeded to Kensington where a colla- 
tion had been provided for them. 

October 30th, was the annual target firing. Leaving the Armory 
at 10 o'clock, after making a short parade, they marched to the 
4 



50 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1837 

Yellow Cottage where the firing took place. They then marched to 
the Madison House where they sat down to dinner. 

On November 27th, the Company in fatigue dress, paraded for a 
special target firing to Yellow Cottage, to fire for a special medal 
presented by Captain Page. The prize was won by J. Rickbaam. 

On January 15th, 1838, John Moore was advanced to 1st Lieut., 
Samuel Goldey to 2nd Lieut., and John S. Button to 3rd Lieut. 

On February 5th, the Company gave an exhibition drill at the 
request of the Military Convention then holding its sessions in the 
Armory. After the drill, much admiration was expressed by the 
members of the convention for the soldierly appearance, the ex- 
actness, and the skill of its officers. 

On February 25th, the Company paraded to attend the funeral 
of their late Comrade, A. Magee. After rendering the usual mili- 
tary honors at the grave the Corps returned to the Armory. 

On May 27th, learning that the Washington Grays of Reading, 
Capt. W. H. Keim, were encamped on the eastern bank of the 
Schuylkill, a committee waited on them offering a detail which 
was sent to their camp to do guard duty. The Company then 
escorted the Grays to the city and after refreshments, they pro- 
ceeded to the theatre. After the performance they were taken 
to the Madison House where a supper was served. After about two 
hours they divided into small parties and enjoyed themselves, by 
the light of the moon. The Grays arrived at camp the next morn- 
ing delighted with the attention shown them and departed for home 
during the day. 

On July 2nd, the Company assembled at the Armory prepared 
to visit Albany. The trip occupied 8 days. While there, the Fenci- 
bles were the guests of the Albany Burgess Corps. They also vis- 
ited Troy and other towns in the vicinity. This was a memorable 
trip, full of pleasing incidents, and the Corps was the recipients 
of innumerable invitations from Military and citizens of Albany 
and surrounding towns. The Company returned home on the 9th, 
and were received on their arrival with a splendid escort. 

On August 23rd, the Company paraded to attend the funeral 
of our late Comrade, Peter Christler, and on the 24th the funeral of 
John Miller, a Revolutionary soldier. The Company performed the 
customary honors over each. 

On October 29th, the annual target firing took place, the Corps 
after assembling made a short street parade, and then proceeded 



1838 TARGET FIRING— MEDAL PRESENTATION 51 

to Kensington for target practice. In the evening they marched 
to the Madison House with their invited guests and sat down to a 
sumptuous dinner. During the evening the presentation of a Gold 
Cross to Captain Osbom, of the Albany Burgess Corps of Albany, 
took place. Captain Osborn in return presented a Silver Goblet to 
Captain James Page. 

In the month of November, Quartermaster Thomas B. Florence 
was commissioned by the Company to proceed to Albany to present 
to the Albany Burgess Corps, a handsome gold medal on behalf of 
the Company, as a mark of their esteem and appreciation of the 
civility to the Corps on their late visit to that city. 



CHAPTER V. 

1838—1843. 

bucksoht war — death of colonel van schaick — visit to norris- 
town — visit of volunteer corps of washington light infantry 
— visit of troy citizens corps — visit of dauphin guards of har- 
risburg — camp at easton — easton washington grays — target 

firing parades — national grays — first subscription ball 

anniversary — lancaster fencibles — fencibles assigned to 
102nd pa. vol. infantry. 

At the general election in October, 1838, the Democrats and the 
Whigs contested the ticket for the Legislature. The Democrats 
claimed they had elected the Assembly ticket, and the Whiga 
claimed that they had a majority of 1,000. When the Legislature 
met, both sets of claimants went to Harrisburg. There had been 
two set-s of certificates issued. The Governor and the Secretary 
of the Commonwealth, while they favored the Whigs' returns, they 
however laid the matter before the Legislature. In the Senate, the 
Whig candidates were sworn in. In the House, the Whig members 
recognized the AVhig candidates and the Democrats recognized the 
Democratic candidates. Neither party had a majority of the whole 
without the eight contested seats. The Governor recognized the 
Whig body as the legal House of Representatives and the Senate 
took the same action. Each House insisted that it alone possessed 
legal authority. There was danger of violation of the peace, and 
perhaps civil war. In this emergency the Governor proclaimed a 
rebellion, and made a requisition for troops upon Major General 
Patterson, commanding the First Division. In issuing his order 
the Governor directed that the Volunteers should load their guns 
with "buckshot and ball." From this arose the term "Buckshot 
War"* which was given to the events of that period. The troops, 
about twelve hundred in number, left the city on the morning of 
December 8th, under the command of Generals Patterson and 

♦Scharf and Westcott's History of Pennsylvania, Vol. 1, page 653. 
52 



1838 BUCKSHOT WAE, HARRISBURG 53 

Goodwin. They were carried by cars of the Columbia Railroad 
from Broad and Market Streets. At Harrisburg they were put 
on guard at the Arsenal and other places. A large number of 
persons went up from Philadelphia with the troops and later con- 
stituted themselves a "Committee of Safety." After considerable 
controversy between the two rival factions the Democrats tri- 
umphed and the Whigs who had withdrawn went back to their 
seats and the trouble was over. The troops, however, were retained 
at the Capital for nearly one month and did not return to the city 
imtil the beginning of January. 

On December 6th, in conformity to a requisition for troops is- 
sued by Governor Ritner, the Fencibles were mustered for active 
service and proceeded to Harrisburg, with fatigue dress, and 
knapsacks with blankets rolled on top. There they performed all 
the duties assigned with great credit to themselves, and to the satis- 
faction of the authorities and citizens generally. The Corps was 
mustered out of the State service on January 9th, 1839. 

According to the payroll, a copy of which is in our possession, 
they were in service one month.* That they reflected great credit 
on themselves, may be seen from the following letter from promi- 
nent citizens in Harrisburg, at that time. 

To the Officers and Members of the State Fencibles. 

Gentlemen: — We have received several letters from your sec- 
retary announcing to us, our election as honorary members of the 
State Fencibles. We beg jointly to tender to you our sincere 
acknowledgments for this mark of respect from a Company of 
citizen soldiers whose martial bearing, perfect discipline, and 
gentlem:5nly deportment, during an impleasant duty at the seat of 
Government, elicited the highest approbation from every citizen. 
If our efforts to tender your stay in Harrisburg pleasant were in ' 

any degree successful, we have only to say they fell short of our 
disposition owing to the adverse circumstances by which we were 
surrounded. We accept the appointments thus tendered to us, 
and will at all times be ready cheerfully to co-operate in all things 
which may tend to advance the interests of the State Fencibles. 
With the best wishes for your welfare as citizens and soldiers wo 
remain your obedient servants — Thomas B. McElwee, William 
Bostick, W. D. Boas, Joseph A. Chandler, Valentine Hummell, C. 
T. Munech, Thomas L. Wilson, Jerome K. Boyer, Geo. Kemble. 

•See Appendix. 



54 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1838 

Recapitulation of troops participating in the Buckshot War : 

First Philadelphia Troop, rank and file, 22 

Governor's Guard, rank and file, 20 

Mifflin Guards, rank and file, 33 

National Grays, rank and file, 51 

Penn Township Guards, rank and file, 15 

Germantown Blues, rank and file, 38 

Monroe Guards, rank and file, 25 

Philadelphia Grays, rank and file, 52 

First Philadelphia Coimty Troop, rank and file, 25 

Washington Grays, rank and file, 43 

State Fencibles, rank and file, 33 

Roxborough Volunteers, rank and file, 25 

German Rifie Company, rank and file, 26 

First German Wash. Guards, rank and file, 57 

Philadephia Lancer Guards, rank and file, 20 

Junior Artillerists, rank and file, 13 

State Artillerists, rank and file, 29 

Washington Blues, rank and file, 27 

Lafayette Artillerists, rank and file, 12 

National Troop, rank and file, 8 

Second Co. Ger. Wash. Guards, rank and file, 23 

Union Fencibles, rank and file, 42 

First Co. Ger. Wash. Guards, rank and file, 29 

Lafayette Light Guards, rank and file, 17 

Jackson Artillerists, rank and file, 18 

Caledonia Blues, rank and file, 21 

Second Company State Fencibles, rank and file, 25 

Montgomery Hibernia Greens, rank and file, 30 

Hibemia Greens, rank and file, 30 

Field and Staff Officers, 46 

Musicians, 34 

Total, 885 

On January 14th, 1839, at a special meeting of the Corps a com- 
munication was read from the Albany Burgess Corps, announcing 
the death of their beloved President, Col. John B. Van Schaick, a 
man who was held in the highest esteem by the Fencibles, where- 
upon the Corps passed resolutions expressing regret for the loss 



1839 DEATH OF COLONEL VAN SCHAICK 55 

of one so endeared to them and whose friendship in his intercourse 
with the Corps, has elicited from every heart the highest admira- 
tion and respect. The resolution said inter aUa: "We cherish 
the warmest feelings and admiration for the memory of his noble 
and generous spirit and the Corps will wear the usual badge of 
mourning for 30 days." 

A newspaper said: 

"The following communication from the State Feneibles of the 
City of Philadelphia, had been yielded at our request for publica- 
tion. We give it an early insertion, in consideration of the well 
deserved compliment paid the memory of a deceased friend, and as 
a proof of the kind feelings entertained by the Corps of State 
Feneibles for their comrades in this city." 

Philadelphia, January 19th, 1839. 
To the Family of the late Col. John B. Van Schaick: 

In the performanee of a sad but pleasing tluty, I enclose you 
for the family of the late Col. John B. Van Schaick, a copy of 
the proceedings, adopted by the Company of State J*^encibles of 
the City of Philadelphia, on hearing the melancholy intelligence 
of his decease. 

JoHx G. Franklin, 
Ass't Sec'y. 

At a stated meeting of the Corps of State Feneibles, held at 
the Armory on the evening of January 14th, 1839, the following 
Preamble and Resolutions, submitted by Thomas B. Florence, after 
an eloquent reference to the high literary attainments, the dis- 
tinguished virtues and sterling worth of the lamented deceased, by 
Colonel Page, were unanimously adopted: 

Armory Corps of State Feneibles, Philadelphia, January 14th, 
1839. 
Whereas, The melancholy intelligence of the premature demise •; 

of one so much endeared to us as the late President of the Mill- * 

tary Association of Albany, Col. J. B. Van Schaick, is calculated 
to induce a spontaneous feeling of unfeigned regret, and experi- 
encing poignant sorrow at the dispensation that has deprived so- 
ciety of a valuable member, and of one, who, by the exercise of 
social relations and virtues, had elicited from every heart the kind- 
est admiration and respect, and reverting to the extended kindness 
and warm friendship evinced in his intercourse with this Corps, 



56 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1839 

we cherish with the warmest sensibility and regard the memory 
of his noble and generous spirit. Be it therefore, 

Resolved, That we sincerely deplore with deep and abiding sor- 
row the early decease of our chivalric and generous friend, Col. 
■J. B. Van Schaick, President of the Military Association of 
Albany. 

Eesolved, That we very especially affectionately condole with the 
family of the deceased in this irreparable bereavement. 

Resolved, That as a testimony of respect to his memory, we will 
wear the usual badge of mourning for the space of thirty days. 

Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing be forwarded to the 
family of Colonel A^an Schaick, and to the Military Association 
of Albany. 

Attest : John G. Franklin, 

Ass't Sec'y. 

On February 28th, the following officers were elected: — 1st 
Lieut., Samuel Goldley ; 2nd Lieut., John S. Button ; 3rd Lieut., 
Thomas B. Florence.. 

On May 1st, the Company assembled at the Armory to proceed 
to Norristown for target firing ; having accepted an invitation from 
the citizens of that town. Upon their arrival they were escorted 
to the ground selected for the firing, previous to which the citizens 
presented to the Corps a handsome gold medal. Early in the even- 
ing the Corps bid adieu to their generous entertainers and departed 
for home delighted with their trip. 

Shortly after the aforesaid event the Corps received the follow- 
ing answer to a resolution of thanks passed by the Company : 

Norristown, May 10, 1839. 
Captain Page and Gentlemen: 

Yours of the 7th, was duly received, the resolution of the 
Company under your Command, contained in your communication 
breathes a spirit of kindness, which we will ever appreciate with 
a grateful remembrance. The visit of the Feneibles to our Bor- 
ough was as pleasing to us, as we hope it was gratifying to them, 
the only source of regret we can have is, we are not enabled to 
receive you "La Militaire;" but from the disposition manifested 
by the young men of our place since your visit, we are inclined to 
believe that it has had the effect of stimulating them to an active 
exertion to raise a Corps here. So that if ever we should again be 
honored by one so handsome as the Feneibles, we will be enabled 
to give a more characteristic reception on behalf of the citizens 
and ourselves. 



1839 VISITING COMMANDS— ENTERTAINMENT 57 

We beg you for yourself and those under your command to ac- 
cept our thanks for the promptness with which you responded 
to our humble invitation to visit our Borough. 

Your obedient servants, 

J. W. Davies. 
Wm. Z. Matthews. 
Joseph Forman. 
J. H. IIobart. 

On June 10th, the Volunteer Corps of Washington Light In- 
fantry, of Washington, D. C, visited the city as the guests of the 
National Grays. During their stay they were also entertained by 
the Feneibles. A supper was given in their honor. Speeches were 
made by the officers of the three organizations. Toasts were given 
and much patriotic enthusiasm developed. 

On July 6th, the Company made a parade in Summer uniform 
for the purpose of escorting the Washington Grays of this city, 
Capt. C. G. Childs, on their return from an excursion to Reading. 
The Corps marched to 9th and Spring Garden Streets, and awaited 
their arrival. After receiving them they marcli^d to their quarters. 

During the month of July, the Corps assembled at the Armory 
in Summer uniform, on Tuesday morning, to receive the Troy Citi- 
zens Corps of Troy, N. Y., who were to be the guests of the Fenei- 
bles. On their arrival they were escorted to their quarters. In 
the afternoon they were taken in charge by the members and 
in the evening were escorted to the theatre. After the performance 
they were divided into small parties to enjoy themselves as they 
desired. 

On Wednesday morning they were taken in a body to several 
places of interest, and in the afternoon entertained at dinner by 
the Feneibles. Many prominent guests were present. Toasts were 
read and songs sung. In the evening they again divided into small 
parties, visiting theatres and other places of amusement. 

On Thursday morning the "Trojans," escorted by the officers 
and members of the Feneibles, amid the hearty cheers, started on 
their journey homeward. 

On September 17th, the Company assembled at the Armory in 
conjunction with the National Grays and paraded to receive the 
Dauphin Guards of Harrisburg, who w^ere on a short visit to this 
City and Trenton. After escorting them to their quarters a commit- 
tee of ten from the Feneibles and Grays took charge of the visitors, 
showing them places of interest in the City, not forgetting the in- 



58 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1839 

ner man. They also visited the theatre in the evening. The next 
morning the committee accompanied them to Trenton, returning 
to the City early in the evening. 

On October 27th, occurred the annual target firing, the Corps 
marching to the Yellow Cottage, and afterward assembled at Mr. 
Browers' where dinner was served, and all passed off in the usual 
style, full of enjoyment and good feeling. 

On March 9th, 1840, the Company paraded for target firing, 
marching to the grounds back of Moyamensing Prison, whose walls 
served as a back stop for the many balls which failed to hit the 
target. After the firing, the Company marched to the house of Mrs. 
Harbord, who had Idndly invited them to a collation. 

On June 1st, the Company made a parade in Summer uniform, 
stopping at Congress Hall, to partake of a collation provided by 
their friends. 

On July 3rd, at the solicitation of Capt. Samuel W. Seeley, com- 
manding the Tompkins Blues of New York, the Company paraded 
to receive the Montgomery Guards of that city, Captain Munday, 
commanding. After extending to them every civility, they took 
their departure on the morning of the 5th. This Company was com- 
posed of Irishmen and was an excellent body of men with perfect 
discipline. 

On September 13th, the Company again made a street parade, 
marching to Kensington where they partook of a collation. 

On October 19th, John Middleton was elected 3rd 'Lieut., and 
B. J. Williams, 4th Lieut. On the 28th, the Company assembled for 
their annual target firing which took place on the parade ground 
back of the prison. 

On November 26th, the Corps paraded as a part of the Military 
Escort for the interment of the remains of Gen. Hugh Mercer. 
They were removed from the yard of Christ's Church, Second 
Street, to Laurel Hill Cemetery. The monument was erected by 
St. Andrew's Society, and has the following inscription, "Dedi- 
cated to General Hugh Mercer who fell for the sacred cause of 
Human Liberty and American Independence, in the Battle of 
Princeton. He poured out his blood for a generous principle." 

On March 18th, 1841, the Company, having tendered an escort 
to the National Grays on their return from Washington, they in- 
vited several other Companies to participate. On that afternoon 



1841 DRILL— PAEADE— FUNERAL 59 

the Grays were received and escorted to their quarters after a short 
parade. 

At a stated meeting of the Corps on April ]2th, a motion was 
passed to appoint a committee looking to the formation of a Bat- 
talion, by inviting the co-operation of three good companies, for 
the purpose of having Battalion drills, under the **New Regula- 
tion U. S. Infantrj' Tactics." This movement was not of long 
duration, as the minutes make no mention of the drills after the 
first year. 

The Corps, on April 20th, took part in the funeral ceremonies in 
honor of President Harrison. 

On Thursday, May 24th, the Corps paraded in full uniform, in 
honor of its Anniversary (which occurs on the 26th) and in the 
evening sat down to a collation where they were joined by a num- 
ber of friends. 

On August 27th, the Corps learning that the Easton Washing- 
ton Grays M^ere to stop in this city over night, on their return home 
from an extended trip, they assembled in the afternoon and es- 
corted them to their quarters. In the evening, they were enter- 
tained in the Armory to "punch and lunch." The invigorating 
qualities of this celebrated "Fencible Punch"* may be best ex- 
pressed by saying that some of them were Avell punched before re- 
tiring. Its powerful qualities are known never to have surrendered 
to those who have the temerity to attack it. The Grays departed 
early the next morning for home. 

On October 26th, occurred the death of Maj. Gen. Thomas Cad- 
walader, born October 28, 1779. He was the son of Gen. John 
Cadwalader. of the Continental Army, and father of Gen. George 
Cadwalader, distinguished for his services in the Mexican War and 
in the War of the Rebellion. Gen. Thomas Cadwalader com- 
manded at Camp DuPont. He was an accomplished officer and 
finished gentleman. 

On October 27th, the Corps paraded for the annual target firing, 
and marched to the parade ground back of Moyamensing Prison. 
On their return they marched to the Merchants Hotel where they 
had been invited to partake of a collation, after spending two hours 
pleasantly, they returned to the Armory. 

On December 13th, the Corps paraded to attend the funeral of 

♦Fencibles Punch, see page 97. 



60 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1842 

their late Comrade, "William Oves, where at the grave they fired 
the usual parting salute to the deceased soldier. 

In the beginning of the year 1842, the Company gave a subscrip- 
tion ball, the first on record in the minutes, a brilliant and very- 
select affair. Tickets could not be procured until the names of the 
subscribers and their ladies were presented to a committee who 
sat for that purpose. 

On July 4th, tlie Company celebrated the day by a parade and 
excursion to Bristol. Dinner was served and a number of guests 
were present. The Declaration of Independence was read and a 
number of toasts given. They returned to this city late in the 
afternoon. 

The Corps having received an invitation from the Easton 
Washington Grays to ipay them a visit while in camp on the Dela- 
ware near Easton, they assembled on the morning of September 
1st, and boarded the steamboat for Trenton. Arriving at that city, 
they embarked on the canal boat for Easton, and from there were 
escorted to camp by the Grays, who came out for that purpose. 
Everything was done by the Grays to make the Fencibles' outing 
pleasant. The Corps took part in all military exercises, but were 
exempted from guard duty. While there they gave their entertain- 
ers and friends an exhibition drill, which for its excellence, the 
Company* was highly congratulated. The Company after spending 
three days in camp departed for home leaving many newly-made 
friends behind. 

On October 19th, the Company paraded in winter uniforms 
for the purpose of escorting the Lancaster Fencibles to the depot 
on their return home. 

At a special meeting of the Corps, the following preamble and 
resolutions were offered by Lieutenant Williams and unanimously 
adopted : 

November 5th, 1842 
Whereas, Lieutenant Samuel Gokley is a candidate for the 
office of Brigade Inspector, vacated by the death of Major Har- 
bach, and to be filled by an election on Monday next, and 

Whereas, The said Lieutenant Samuel Goldey has been for a 
long time attached to this Corps, both as a private and an officer, 
and it would seem to be but an act of justice to him to make 
public the opinion which is entertained of him by his military 
associates and companions in arms; therefore be it 

*The term company and corps until 1876 are used in this history with the same 
meaning — see Introduction. 



1842 ELECTION— TARGET FIRING— NEW BAND Qi 

Eesolved, That the said Samuel Goldey was a good soldier while 
in the ranks, and the rapidity with which he advanced to the 
office he now fills with such credit to himself and us, as well as 
his long continuance therein, are sufficient proofs that he possesses 
our cordial regard and esteem, and commands our fullest confi- 
dence. 

Besolved, That while we recognize in his competitors, gentlemen 
and soldiers whom we respect, we will on Monday next, give our 
unanimous support to Lieutenant Samuel Goldey, who has given 
us so many proofs of his devotion to the interests of the volun- 
teers, of his fitness for the office, and of his courteous and gen- 
tlemanly disposition. 

Resolved, That the above resolutions be published in the daily 
papers. 

James Page, Captain. 
Reuben P. White, Sec'y. 

In August of this j^ear an election took place for officers with 
the following result: — Captain, James Page; 1st Lieut., Samuel 
Goldey ; 2nd Lieut., John S. Button ; 3rd Lieut., John Middleton ; 
4th Lieut., B. J. Williams. 

On October 27th, the annual target firing took place on the pa- 
rade ground back of Moyamensing Prison. 

In the month of February of 1843, the Company gave another 
subscription ball which was largely attended by a select number of 
citizens and many guests. 

On May 1st, at the request of the Corps the Commander-in- 
Chief transferred the Corps from the 81st Regiment to the 102nd 
Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Colonel Murray. 

In the month of June the Corps succeeded in organizing a band 
of 12 pieces in addition to the Martial Band, to be uniformed the 
same as the Company, also to be members of the Company and to 
attend the drills. 

On July 10th, the Company assembled at the Armory fur pa- 
rade and inspection with the Regiment. White pants and new 
caps, recently adopted, were worn. After inspection and parade, 
the Company proceeded to the residence of Thomas M. Richards, 
a member, where a collation was served. 

On September 29th, the Corps paraded for drill and target fir- 
ing and partook of a sumptuous repast at the Mansion House in 
honor of the 29th Anniversary. Many distinguished civil and mili- 
tary gentlemen were present, among whom Avere the Hon. James 
Buchanan, Gen. George Cadwalader, Gen. Adam Diller, Gen. A. L. 



62 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1843 

Roumfort, General Hubbell, Gen. A. M. Prevost, Colonel Pleason- 
ton, Capt. H. C. Patterson, Capt. John McAdam and J. R. Chand- 
ler, Esq. 

October 30th, the Corps assembled at ten o'clock for the annual 
target firing on the ground back of the prison. On returning they 
were invited by Mr. Toram, to partake of a collation. That even- 
ing they assembled at the Armory and with a number of friends 
enjoyed a supper provided by the committee. 

On April 8th, 1844, a change in the uniform was adopted, con- 
sisting of a scarlet coat with two rows of Staff buttons with State 
Fencibles in the circle. Blue pants with white stripe, bear skin 
shako, white epaulets and belts, breast plate with tiger's head in 
centre. 



CHAPTER VI. 
1844-1845. 

THE RIOTS OF 1844 LETTER FROM COLONEL PAGE — DEATH OP LIEUT. 

JOHN S. DUTTON — RESOLUTIONS — NATIVE AMERICAN PROCESSION — 
CAPTAIN page's REPORT — VISIT OF DUQUESNE GRAYS — NEW UNI- 
FORMS — MILITARY BALL — NEW ARMORY — VISIT OP WASHINGTON 
HILLERESTS — TzVRGET FIRING — PRESENTATION OP ORIGINAL RECORDS 
OP 1813. 

The riots of 1844 differed in many respects from those which 
had preceded them. Prejudice against the black population had 
been generally the moving cause; while those of the year named 
were due to antagonism between the native and foreign element, 
engendered on the one side by a belief that, politically, the latter 
was overshadowing the former, and becoming too exacting in its 
demands; and on the other, by the apprehension that it was to be 
deprived of some of its long-enjoyed privileges. 

The first American movement in these parts was begun in the 
year 1837, in Germantown. An association was then formed 
pledged to effect, if possible, such a change in the naturalization 
laws as would require a residence of more than five years in the 
country to entitle the foreigner to citizenship. How long the or- 
ganization was in existence is not known. Within the boundaries 
of the county, no other step, in the same direction, was taken until 
December, 1843, when a meeting was held in the district of Spring 
Garden, at which a society was formed, entitled "The American 
Republican Association of Second Ward, Spring Garden." So- 
cieties of the same character were formed, in the following Janu- 
ary, in North Mulberry and Cedar Wards, and these were soon fol- 
lowed by others, all having, as was declared, the object of chang- 
ing the naturalization laws, opposing the union of Church and 
State, preventing the exclusion of the Bible from the public schools, 
and giving to the native citizen the position, politically, it was as- 
sumed he was entitled to occupy. The question of the Bible in the 
public schools had been agitated in the district of Kensington for 

63 



64 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

many months, if not years, and given rise to a bitter sectarian 
feeling. Every day seemed to add to the intensity of it on both 
sides, and it finally found vent in the riots which proved so de- 
stj-uctive of human life and property, and so damaging to the 
reputation of the city. 

In the month of April, 1844, an attempt was made to form an 
American Association in the Third Ward, Kensington, in the very 
stronghold of the opposition. The active men in the movement 
called a meeting at the house of John Gee, in Second Street, above 
Phoenix, but when the time arrived for the organization, the citi- 
zens were told that in consequence of threats to burn the house, 
the meeting could not be held there, and the assemblage quietly 
dispersed. No further attempt was made to meet in the Third 
Ward, until the month of May, when a call was issued, signed Wil- 
liam Craig, President, and John McManus, Secretary, for a meet- 
ing of native-born citizens on Friday afternoon, the 3rd, at the 
corner of Second and Master Streets. The place selected was a 
lot extending from Second Street to the enclosure of the public 
school house, and south from Master, one hundred feet or more. 
Here a stand was erected, and the announcement of the intended 
gathering drew around it all the idlers of the neighborhood, and 
among them not a few were hostile to its avowed objects. 

That there was a determination to interfere with the proceed- 
ings, may be inferred from what followed. Insulting remarks, fol- 
lowed by a rush, and a hostile demonstration by the opponents 
of the movement, who far outnumbered the officers, drove the 
speakers from the stage. 

A mass meeting was anounced to take place on Monday after- 
noon, the 6th, on the lot from which the Americans had been driven 
so recently. 

While the speakers were earnestly discussing the principles of 
the American party, and the spectators were eagerly listening, 
several carts, half-filled with dirt, were driven upon the lot among 
the people and as close to the stage as was possible before they 
were emptied. 

A rain storm of unusual violence broke over the city, and speak- 
ers and spectators left the groimd hurriedly and sought the near- 
est place of shelter, which was the market-house, on Washington, 
now American Street, north of Master. Here an effort was made 



1844 KENSINGTON EIOTS 65 

to reorganize the meeting but the opponents were determined that 
it should not be held. 

A scuffle ensued, in which several persons were connected, and, 
in the midst of it, a large stone was hurled into the crowd from 
the direction of the Hibernia hose-house, followed by a musket 
shot, which did not wound any one. Enough, however, had been 
done to create intense feeling and it was heightened by the shoot- 
ing of a pistol in the market-house, which caused the wounding of 
Patrick Fisher, who had the distinction of being the first man 
woimded in the famous riot of the 6th. The fighting, soon after, 
became pretty general, and the participants being gradually drawn 
from the shelter afforded by the market-house, a deadly fire was 
opened upon them from the hose-house, from the roofs and win- 
dows of houses on Cadwalader Street, and from yards and alleys 
also. This drove many of the Americans from the ground, but 
some of them remained and endeavored to maintain their position 
in the face of the firing which was continued with very little in- 
termission. It was at this time George Shiffler fell with a bullet 
in his heart, and he was the first man slain in the memorable riots. 
Quite a number were wounded, some of them severely. 

On the morning of Tuesday, General Cadwalader, at the in- 
stance of Sheriff IMorton McMichael, had a conference with the 
officers of his Brigade, and it was agreed that the emergency had 
arisen for the calling out of the military and about one o'clock the 
necessary order was given. Had the force reached the scene of 
Monday's riots, before the procession of Americans from the meet- 
ing, there might have been no further rioting and loss of life. It 
was, however nearly dark when the military arrived and by this 
time, the whole heavens were illuminated by the flames from burn- 
ing dwellings, w^hile the reports of firearms broke every moment 
upon the ear. The Washington market-house had caught fire from 
the flames of contiguous buildings, and was burning furiously. 
General Cadwalader made such a disposition of the force as seemed 
best to him, but its smallness and the extent of ground covered by 
the rioters, made it extremelj'- difficult for him to render it avail- 
able. It was a trying situation for the Officer in command. 

A report had been circulated that St. Michael's Church and the 
Seminary were filled with armed men, and the General gained ac- 
cess to the buildings to satisfy the people of the unfounded char- 
acter of the reports. Nearly the whole night of the seventh, tha 
5 



66 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

incendiaries and rioters were at work, and it was plain that unless 
the military force was largely increased, and the whole rioting 
ground covered by them, nothing effectual could be done in check- 
ing the master spirits in the work. The Sheriff had confessed that 
the civil power was totally inadequate to suppress the riots, and 
was ready, as was done subsequently, to give up entirely to General 
Patterson who had command of the Division, Before it was ac- 
complished, there had been far greater destruction of property. 
It was on Wednesday the 8th, that the Churches of St. Michael and 
St. Augustine were destroyed, and the houses of men, who had 
made themselves obnoxious to the mob were sacked. Much of the 
mischief was done by boys in the presence of men who had not the 
courage to interfere. 

The burning of St. Michael's and of the Seminary must have sat- 
isfied all in authority in the city, that a more adequate force, or 
different kind of officers to command it, was necessary, than occu- 
pied the fighting ground. 

The First Infantry Regiment of the First Brigade, composed of 
the State Fencibles, Captain Page ; Washington Blues, Captain Pat- 
terson; National Grays, Captain Fritz, and other companies, were 
under the command of Col. Joseph Murray, a weak and vacillating 
man, who was wholly unequal to the emergency when the mob as- 
sumed a threatening attitude, and courage and firmness were nec- 
essary to interpose a check. Captain Page made every effort 
to prevent the destruction of property, and, in so doing, re- 
ceived rough treatment, yet by his firmness he compelled the riot- 
ers to give way. Captain Patterson urged the most violent meas- 
ures, and at one time cried out ' ' Shoot the rioters down ! ' ' but Col- 
onel Murray, who was responsible for whatever might be done, de- 
clined to give the order to fire. It was not until evening that any 
effectual steps were taken to stop the riot. The whole trouble arose 
out of the doubt that the INIilitary had a right to fire upon the mob 
until an attack had been made upon them. After the night of the 
8th, there was no further destruction of property. 

The entire press of Philadelphia deprecated and denounced the 
acts of the rioters. In the "Sun," the organ of the Native Amer- 
icans, this language was used, in respect to the Church burning : 

"We have never recorclecl an event that filled us with more sor- 
row. In our extra of yesterday, we declared our belief that no 
assault would be made upon the Catholic churches, for no prove- 



1844 ^ RIOTS— ORDERS 67 

cation, not even the tearing of the American flag, or the spilling 
of innocent blood, can justify the act. We said that we wanteil 
language to express our indignation at the conduct of foreigners 
to deprive American citizens of the right of speech, and we 
frankly confess to-day that we lack language to give utterance to 
our abhoreuce of this act of vandalism." 

News of the rioting, and of the destruction of property, having 
reached Harrisburg, Governor Porter came to the city and is- 
sued a proclamation on the 9th, which contained three orders, as 
follows; the events of the three previous days being recited in a 
preamble : 

Second. " It is ordered by the Commander-in-Chief that Major- 
General Patterson be directed to call into immediate service all the 
volunteer companies belonging to the First Division of the Penn- 
sylvania Militia, and so to order and distribute them, as well as 
all other volunteer companies who have been ordered to report 
themselves to him, as to suppressing, in the most effectual manner, , 

the assemblies referred to, and to disperse or procure the arrest i 

of the persons engaged in the same. ' ' 

Immediately upon ]\Iajor-General Patterson assuming command, 
he issued orders, looking to the protection of the Catholic Churches 
of Philadelphia, open threats having been made that others would 
be burned. His force was sufficiently large to detail companies for 
service in different parts of the city. 

In a subsequent order the General commanded that the volun- 
teers of the Division should parade in Brigades, and that the Lan- 
caster and Dauphin Volunteers should be held in reserve, also the 
German Battalion, under Major Dithmar. General Cadwalader 
was ordered to detail the First City Troop, Captain Butler, for 
special service. All the Officers in command were required to 
disperse riotous assemblages, and, if resistance was offered to warn 
the offenders and give them five minutes to retire; and if they 
failed to do so, the necessary force was to be used. Captain Page 
and the State Fencibles and Wasliington Blues. Capt. Wm. C. Pat- 
terson were detailed for duty at St. Joseph's Church, in Willing 's 
Alley. In taking possession of the Churches, sentries were posted 
on the outside, but the Command otherwise remained within the 
building. It was truly a novel sight to see armed soldiers pacing, 
wdth measured tread, in front of edifices dedicated to the service 
of the All-Seeing One, placed there to protect them from violence. 



68 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

The city and county, which had been handed over to the al- 
most exchisive control of the Military, continued to be under that 
rule for about two weeks, and there were street parades almost 
every afternoon. The purpose of the Comanding Officer was to 
show that the force was adequate to quell any riot that might arise. 

Interesting Letter prom Col. James Page. 

Philadelphia, September 22, 1873. 
172 South Fourth Street, 
Editor Sunday Times: — In reading over the history of your 
contributors as to the riots in Kensington in 1844, I wish to say 
that it is substantially correct. There is, however, one allusion 
in regard to myself it is proper to qualify — that which refers to 
my having been "roughly treated" by the rioters. This is an er- 
ror; for, although I was in imminent peril, not the slightest per- 
sonal violence was offered. 

The facts, as near as I can recollect them are these: A detach- 
ment of volunteers, under the command of Col. Joseph Murray, 
was sent in advance to Kensington. Eeaching that place, it took 
a position in the neighborhood of the disturbed district, and 
while there, received information that the rioters had attacked, 
and were then gutting a store in Second Street. Colonel Murray 
immediately put his command in motion, and on reaching Second 
Street, wheeled to the right in column of sections, when a terrible 
scene presented itself. The whole street, something more than a 
square below, was filled with rioters in hot pursuit of some of 
the Sheriff's posse, who were flying for their lives in the direction 
of the advancing column. I saw, at a glance, that there would 
be a conflict between the military and rioters. I suggested to 
Colonel Murray the necessity of occupying the whole width of the 
street by forming platoons, and thus protecting his flanks, which 
he promptly did, (halting his command and preparing for the on- 
set), and telling him of my purpose, I advanced a considerable 
distance in front of the column, waving my sword in the air to 
attract attention, directing the fugitives to take refuge behind the 
military, and shouting to the rioters to stop or they would be fired 
upon. My object was to divert the mob and avoid a collision. It 
was the thought of a moment, and fortunately successful. In an 
instant I was surrounded by hundreds of them — the rush in the 
direction of the military was stopped — the flying ofiicers escaped 
— a new object was presented to the mob. There was a pause, and 
a bloody catastrophe averted. Although they crowded upon me, 
hear what I had to say, and provided me with a stand from which 
and shut me out from the column and all aid, and made use of 
coarse threats, they offered no violence of any kind, but wanted to 




COLONEL JAMES PAGE. 
(Captain' Statk Fkncibi.es.) 



1844 LETTER— DEATH OF LIEUT. BUTTON 69 

to speak, which I gladly availed myself of; for time to thiuk was 
what mauy of them needed, mad with the passion of the moment, 
and stimulated to wrong by the wicked and vicious who are ever 
ready to profit by such opportunities. They listened to me pa- ^ 

tiently, dropping away and thinning out by degrees, until the 
whole scene, an hour before so full of violence and terror, became 
comparatively quiet. Towards evening the main body of the mili- 
tary came up, and Colonel Murray and his command were re- 
lieved from a very trying and dangerous position. I need not say 
that, small as was the force under him, they behaved with great 
coolness, and he, his officers and men, were ready to meet the is- 
sue if it had been forced upon them. But they were only there as 
aids to the civil power, and could do nothing, unless attacked, but 
by the orders of the Sheriff, under whose authority they had been 
called out. , 

I thought then, and think now, that if the slightest, personal 
violence had been shown me by any of the more brutal and des- 
perate of the crowd (for some of them were mad with the 
liquor they got from the plundered stores), I should have per- 
ished on the spot; for although there were among them many who 
were led away by their passions and the fearful excitement of 
the hour, they would have been powerless to save, had the assault 
been once made on me. To the fact that I was well known in 
that district, had many warm personal friends there, both among 
the young and the old of its citizens, and had frequently been 
a companion in my earlier days with many of these young men, 
now nearly all gone, but whose memories I still cherish, I at- 
tribute the influence I then possessed, and which I turned to so 
fortunate an account in the preservation of human life. Had the 
fire of the military been drawn, hundreds would have perished — 
the innocent as well as the guilty, for the street was jammed from 
side to side, and no one can say what would have followed this 
terrible slaughter. Even at this late day I tremble to think of it. 

I hope you will adhere to your purpose of embodying those in- 
teresting sketches in book form, and so preserving them for those 
who come after us. 

A'ery respectfully, Your obedient servant, 

James Page. 

Col. J. E. Taggart, Sunday Times. 

This incident, so graphically described by Colonel Page, oc- 
curred on Wednesday, May 8, 1844. 

A newspaper of the day said: 

John S. Button, merchant. No. 20 North Sixth Street, died at 
his residence. No. 207 Pine Street, on Saturday afternoon, after 
an illness of a week, contracted while doing military duty in the 



70 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

suppression of the Kensington riots, as 2d Lieutenant of the State 
Fencibles, and as Adjutant of the 1st Regiment of City Volun- 
teers. His disease was typhoid fever and inflammation of the 
lungs, resulting from exposure and irregularities in diet. The de- 
ceased was an active, enterprising man of business, an excellent 
citizen, a gallant volunteer soldier, a courteous gentleman, and 
a high-souled and generous friend. He had an extensive circle 
of friends and acquaintances who keenly feel his loss and sor- 
rowfully deplore his death. But the most afflicting blow in his 
demise falls upon a lovely wife and several interesting young chil- 
dren, who, in the intensity of their affection existed only in him. 
Tears, manly tears, have bedewed his remains, and more remain 
to be shed at his grave. 

Another paper continued: 

The remains of the lamented Dutton were followed to their last, 
long home, yesterday afternoon, by a long concourse of mourners, 
acquaintances and friends, preceded by the Corps of State Fenci- 
bles, of which he was an officer, and by the officers of the First 
Brigade of Volunteers, and Staff Officers of the Militia. 

At the grave, an impressive and feeling address was delivered 
by the Rev. Asher Moore. There was not a dry eye among those 
who knew him, of whom he spoke. The Fencibles paid the last 
honors over the grave of their brave, prompt, and generous com- 
rade. 

Military Hall, Monday, May 20th. 1844. 
At a special meeting of the Company, held this evening, the fol- 
lowing preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted : 

Whereas, It has pleased the Supreme Disposer of events, to 
take from this transitory life, and suddenly from our midst, 
Lieut. John S. Dutton, who, for a period of seven years, in mili- 
tary association with us, cheerfully and faithfully discharged his 
duties, both as a soldier and an officer; and whose amiable dis- 
position and courteous manners won the regard, and secured the 
love, of all who knew liim; therefore: 

BesoJved, That we look iipon his death as causing us an irrepar- 
able loss, and depriving the community of one of its most active 
and useful citizens. 

Besolved, That as a testimony of our poignant grief for this 
sudden and melancholy bereavement, we will clothe our Armory 
in mourning for one year, wear crepe on the left arm for sixty 
days, and follow the remains of our departed and deeply lamented 
comrade, to their final resting place, there to perform the last sad 
military honors. 



1844 RESOLUTIONS— ELECTION— RECEPTION' 71 

Resolved, That we sincerely condole with his afflicted family 
under this trying dispensation of Providence, which has bereft 
them of a kind brother, a fond father, and an affectionate husband 
— society of an honest man, and this company, of a noble and 
cherished companion, whose memory is enshrined in our hearts, 
and over whose early grave we drop the genuine tear of the sol- 
dier's deep-felt sorrow. 

Hesolved, That the Commissioned OflScers be a committee to 
wait upon the family of the deceased, and present them with a 
copy of these resolutions. 

J. Page, 

R. P. White, Chairman. 

Secretary. 

The following communication was received: 

To the Oflicers and Members of the State Fencibles. 

Gentlemen : — At a meeting of the Albany Burgess Corps held 
at the Armory last evening, it was announced from the chair 
that Lieut. John S. Button, of your Corps, and with whom the 
members of this Company were so intimate was no more. Where- 
upon the following resolutions were passed expressive of their 
feelings: — 

Resolved, That the members of the Albany Burgess Corps, have 
heard with sincere regret of the death of Lieut. John S. Button, 
of the State Fencibles of Philadelphia; that we deeply sym- 
pathize with the military associates and other friends of the de- 
ceased in the severe loss they have sustained. 

Resolved, As a token of our respect to the memory of the de- 
ceased whom we knew as a gallant and accomplished officer, 
that the members of this Corps wear crepe on their left arm and 
their equipments for the usual period. 

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be transmitted to 
the Officers of the State Fencibles, and to the family of the de- 
ceased. 

A. Low, President. 

M, R. Whitney, Sec'y. 

There is recorded in the minutes in the latter part of the year a 
resolution of thanks of the Corps to Gen. George Cadwalader and 
Lieutenant Palmer, U. S. A., for their gen-erous action in contribut- 
ing their paj'' for their services in the riots for the use of the infant 
daughter of the late Lieutenant Button. 

An election for officers at the Armorj- on June 17th. John Mil 
ler was elected 2nd Lieutenant, and Robert J. Park, 3rd Lieutenant. 

After the grand reception of General Lafayette by the citizens 
of Philadelphia in the year 1824. and the Washington Centennial 



72 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

Parade of 1832, the next in size, brilliancy, display of banners, and 
in everything calculated to add to its attractions, was the Native 
American Procession of July 4th, 1844. Less than two months had 
elapsed from the time the first shot was fired in Kensington, at 
which period there were but few party organizations in the city 
or districts. 

Immediately following the three days' rioting a feeling was 
aroused which spread like fire on a prairie. In every ward asso- 
ciations were formed. 

All through the route of the procession the streets were thronged 
with men, women and children and the windows and balconies of 
houses presented a succession of animated scenes, the ladies shower- 
ing bouquets upon their favorites in line and waving their handker- 
chiefs in token of admiration. 

The celebration of the Native Americans at Snyder's Woods on 
the 4th of July, 1844, was an event, like the procession, to be long- 
remembered, not only by those who participated in it, but by such 
of the populace as were present and witnessed the magnificent dis- 
play of fireworks at night. Few "Independence Days," since the 
declaration in July, 1776, have been so generally observed in this 
City as that of 1844, Besides the very large number of men and 
boys who were in the procession, and reached the place of celebra- 
tion, the populace gathered there in such crowds as to defy com- 
putation, and it was conceded to be the largest gathering of people 
ever seen in Philadelphia. 

Though the 4th of July passed without any riotous demonstra- 
tion and the night which followed was entirely free from any ex- 
citement or seeming fear of disorder, a period of great connnotion 
and deadly conflict was approaching, of which there were no pre- 
monitory symptoms, as every fact and circumstance bearing upon 
the outbreak in Southwark in July, 1844, was clearly brought out 
in the several investigations which followed, judicial and otherwise. 

It seems that early in the month of June, when active prepara- 
tions were being made for the Native American procession, a re- 
port, without any foundation whatever, was circulated that an at- 
tack would be made on the Catholic Churches in the city, either 
on the 4th of July, or immediately after. Among the persons upon 
whom this report made an impression was William H. Dunn, an 
attorney-at-law, brother of the priest in charge of the Catholic 
Church of St. Philip de Neri, in Queen Street, above Second. Mr. 



1844 LETTER— REQUEST FOR ARMS 73 

Dunn had been active in the Irish repeal movement; he was wi!h 
the Democratic party in sympathy and feeling, and, as may be 
supposed, from his close relationship to a priest, was a firm be- 
liever in the doctrines and rites of the Catholic Church. No sooner 
had he conceived the idea that St. Philip de Neri was likely to be 
attacked, than he wrote to Governor Porter, requesting the use of 
twenty-five muskets to be employed in its defense, if it should be- 
come necessary. 

Here was the first injudicious step in the matter, and the second 
was the Governor's compliance with the request, as he did in the 
following order: 

Executive Chamber, June 13, 1844. 
To Adam Diller, 

Adjutant General, P. M. 
Sir: 

On the receipt of this, you will deliver to William H. Dunn, 
Esq., twenty-five stand of muskets, taking from him, at the same 
time, his bond for the re-delivery to you of the same, in good 
order, on or before the 1st day of February next. 

Respectfully, 

David R. Porter. 

A week after the lawyer wrote to the General to inform him 
that, of the muskets received out of the Arsenal, under his order, 
but four had ramrods and that a bayonet of one was imperfect. 
This shows that work was intended and that not only the condition 
of the arms for shooting purposes, but for bayonet fighting also was 
examined into. 

The arms obtained from the Governor do not seem to have been 
placed in the Church until Friday, the 5th of July. If so, they 
were not deemed sufficient for the defense of the building, for, on 
the afternoon of that day, a furniture car was driven in front of 
it and guns were carried inside without any attempt to conceal 
them. 

An appeal was made to the Sheriff to cause the removal of the 
arms and twelve muskets were delivered up by Priest Dunn, handed 
over to Captain Douglass, of the night watch, and removed to the 
Southwark Hall. This did not satisfy the people ; they declared that 
there were more arms inside and it was proposed that a committee 
of citizens, with Aldermen Hortz and McKinley, should enter and 
make search of the building. 



74 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCTBLES 1844 

While these proceedings were going on and the committee of 
citizens were in the Church, the City Guards, under command of 
Capt. Jos. Hill, arrived on the ground and cleared the street, post- 
ing a guard at both Second and Third streets. The soldiers were 
received by Priest Dunn, who thanked them for their timely ar- 
rival to save the Church from being burned up. Nothing further 
occurred on Friday. The City Guards kept possession of the street 
until three or four o'clock on Saturday morning, and then re- 
tired, at which time all was quiet and the crowd had dispersed. 

The return of daylight brought back the crowd and a renewal 
of the bad feeling manifested on the evening before. 

Major-General Patterson had been notified, in writing, to hold 
not less than ten companies of the IMilitary in readiness to act, if 
their services should be required. 

When the Church of St. Philip de Neri was stripped of the arms 
which William H. Dunn had obtained from the Arsenal on the 
Governor's requisition, they were carried to the Commissioners' 
Hall, as the safest place of deposit, and there they remained, -un- 
disturbed, until the firing by the City Guards and the killing of 
citizens. They then fell into the hands of such as were eager to 
use them upon the soldiers and were carried off to a neighboring 
place of rendezvous, amid cries of "Go it, Natives ! Damn the 
Military ! ' ' and like expressions. 

One squad with an oysterman named John Cook, as leader, ob- 
tained from the ship Venus, lying at Almond Street Wharf, an old 
cannon of six pound calibre, and, lashing it to a gun carriage, 
drew it to Front and Queen Streets, not, however, without some 
difficulty. On the way down, a halt was made at Mead Alley, and 
by means of threats, John McCoy a grocer, was compelled to supply 
the rioters with powder. Though Cook had but few men with 
him, the party being made up chiefly of boys, he was able to force 
a compliance with any demand he made. It was growing dark 
when Queen Street was reached, and here the piece was loaded and 
discharged, the first fire creating no little surprise among the Mili- 
tary, as the grape shot and stones rattled against the houses. Had 
the strength of this firing party been known, General Cadwalader 
would not have been long troubled with it, but the Cavalrj- had 
not arrived, and in the absence of intelligence as to the character 
of the opposing force, the rioters were able to maintain their 
ground for a considerable time. 



1844 A FATAL SHOT— CAPTURE OF A CANNON 75 

In making a disposition of the force under him, fJoneral Cad- 
walader stationed, at Third and Queen Streets, Captain Mallory's 
Company, the Washington Artillery, with two pieces, one of which 
pointed down Third Street, the other up Quoon. The Germantown 
Blues Avere on his left, and the State Fencibles on his right. It 
was at this point, about half -past nine o'clock, that John Guyer, a 
Sergeant of the Germantown Blues and Corp. Henry G. Trout- 
man, of the same company, were shot; also Private Crawford, of 
the Washington Artillery. 

A cannon, with nuiffled wheels, had been hauled to the corner 
of Third and Christian Streets, and, amid the most profound si- 
lence the discharge took place. There had not been the slightest 
intimation that danger was to be apprehended from that quarter, 
and the Hash of the priming was the first notice to the Military. 

The rioters shifted ground continually, and by means of barri- 
cades placed in the streets, the movements of the Cavalry were 
verv^ much impeded. Not long after the fatal shot at Third and 
Christian, a piece of artillery, of about the same calibre, probably 
the identical cannon, was discharged at Fourth and Queen Streets. 
This drew the fire of the Military and an effort was made to cap- 
ture the piece, which proved successful, but the rioters escaped in 
the darkness. There was no moon on the night of the 7th, and to 
conceal their movements the more effectually, the rioters had ex- 
tinguished all the street lamps, making it impossible for the Mili- 
tary to see, with distinctness, any one half a square distant. There 
was no Cavalry on the battle-ground until after the firing by the 
rioters had commenced. As soon as Captain Snyder, of the 
Holmesburg (Washington) Cavalry, arrived. General Cadwalader 
gave orders for a charge upon any firing partj^ of the "rebels," 
as he styled them, and he directed that the men at the guns should 
be cut down. 

The first cannon captured was at Front and Queen Streets. In 
this movement, Captain Bavington's State Troops also took part. 
Upon an attempt being made to secure the piece, at Third and 
Christian Streets, the troop rode against a rope which had been 
stretched across the street and several of the men were unhorsed. 
This gave a momentary check to the movement, but it was suc- 
cessful. 

From eleven o'clock until two or three in the morning, the Cav- 
alry was kept busy moving from point to point, and many cap- 



76 ONE HUNDEED YEAKS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

tures were made. It finally became dangerous for the rioters to 
operate, especially on the approach of daylight, and by sunrise, 
perfect order was restored, not however to last. 

The night's work was a fearful one, as the list of the killed and 
wounded showed. Of the Military, Private John Guyer, and Cor- 
poral Troutman, both of the Germantown Blues, were the fatal 
cases. The wounded numbered 23, and were Col. A. J. Pleason- 
ton; Capt. R. K. Scott, Private Crawford, of the Washington Ar- 
tillery, who lost an arm; Sergeant Starr, of the Cadwalader Grays; 
Private James Wooldrige, of the Philadelphia Grays, and Private 
James Schreiner, of the same company ; Sergeant Thomas Marston, 
of the State Fencibles, and Private Jos. Hesser, of the same com- 
pany; Privates R. G. Bull, S. F. Williams and C. Dougherty, of 
the Wayne Artillery; Lieut. William L. Cox, of the Germantown 
Blues, and Privates Osborne, Ashworth and Ent, of the same; 
Captain Hill, of the City Guards; Corporal Russell, of the same, 
and Privates Henry Myers and S. Morrison, also. Sergeant Wag- 
ner, of the Washington Cavalry ; Corporal Verrig, of the same, and 
Privates Charles Williams and Charles Livezey. 

The first fire at Third and Christian Streets by the rioters is 
described by Captain Page, of the State Fencibles,- who had been 
placed in command of the Military at Third and Queen Streets, 
as most terrific. He said : 

' ' Third Street was intensely dark south of Queen, the street 
lamps having been extinguished, and the quiet of the grave pre- 
vailed in all that region. The rioters drew their piece to Chris- 
tian and Third Streets, with the wheels muffled so as to conceal 
a knowledge of their movements, and placing it about the center 
of the street, discharged it and the blinding flash from the gun 
followed by a report so loud as to be startling in the extreme, 
were the earliest intimations of their presence at that point. 

The cannon had been filled with pieces of chain, bottles and 
missies of all kinds, but owing to the elevation and obliquity of 
the fire, the discharge spent its greatest force upon the buildings 
on each side of the street, principally on the east, passing over the 
heads of the Fencibles, Artillery and Blues. The men were all 
blown from the six-pounder, and the concussion threw back the 
left of the Fencibles and the right of the Blues, but Private Crout 
at once rallied and fired off the piece, and a volley of musketry 
was given from right to left by the Fencibles and Blues. 

Capt. William C. Patterson, with his Company of Washington 
Blues, the Second State Fencibles and the Cadwalader Grays, de- 



1844 REPORT OF GENERAL CADWALADER 77 

fended the Church of St. Philip, which, being surrounded by small 
alleys, afforded the rioters an opportunity to shelter themselves, 
and to keep up, with very little danger, a continual discharge of 
small arms during the night. 

The night of Sunday, July 7th, and the morning of the 8th, saw 
the last of the rioting of 1844. At the approach of daylight the 
Cavalry under command of Captains Snyder and Bavington, 
moved from point to point, over the district, thus rendering it 
impracticable for the rioters to concentrate at any place near 
enough to the Infantry and Artillery to do damage, and no ag- 
gressive movement was attempted. It was not to be disguised 
that a deep-seated feeling of hostility had been created in the 
breasts of the citizens of Southwark by the killing and wounding 
of persons who were on the ground as spectators, which might 
be kindled into a flame at any moment; and to avoid the possi- 
bility of a further loss of life, steps were taken early on the 
morning of the 8th to effect the withdrawal of the troops." 

In the official report of General Cadwalader to Major-General 
Patterson of the operation of the troops under him in Southwark, 
he detailed, with much minuteness, the events from the time the 
Military reached the ground until the withdrawal of the force on 
Monday afternoon. In noticing the several attacks made upon the 
troops on Sunday night, and the wounding of a number of the 
officers and men, he said: 

"During all these scenes, and with nothing to arous'^ those 
feelings of interest which are felt in an engagement with an 
honorable foe, without being able to see their enemy, except by 
the flash of their arms, and who had the advantage of knowing 
our exact position, I am happy to inform you that both officers 
and men performed their duty promptly, cheerfully, and with 
composure, and as efficiently, under all the circumstances, as could 
have been expected. The firing was continued in this way for 
some time, although the discharge from one of our pieces killed 
one of the rebels (John Cook) on the spot while in the at of 
serving a gun. 

The troops were fired upon from alleys and houses as tiiey 
passed both within and without our lines. Ropes were placed 
across the streets by the insurgents in various places to impede 
the Cavalry in their progress. The night was so dark that the 
Cavalry passed the third piece which had been used upon us, on a 
dray, and did not know it was there." 

The Corps received, on July 12th, the intelligence of the death 
of Captain Bayeaux, of the Albany Burgess Corps, who was highly 



78 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1844 

respected by the members of the Fencibles. Suitable resolutions 
were passed in his memory by the Corps. 

The Du Quesne Grays, of Pittsburgh, arrived in this City late 
in the afternoon of July 28th. The Corps not learning of their visit 
until it was too late to provide a suitable escort, they were con- 
ducted to their quarters by some of the members. In the evening 
they were entertained by the Corps at supper where old friend- 
ships were renewed and an enjoyable evening passed. Early the 
next morning they left the city. 

On September 16th, the Company assembled for parade in their 
new scarlet uniforms. This is the first time that any Military body 
ventured to wear in our City a dress conforming in color to our ad- 
versaries, in the wars with Great Britain. Many unfavorable com- 
ments were made in some of the newspapers and many threatening 
remarks were heard; but the high standing in the community en- 
joyed by the Company, and the popularity and high esteem in 
which the Captain was held throughout the City, did much to allay 
the feeling of opposition to the appearance of the Corps in public. 
Although they wore the uniform the color of our old enemies, they 
were still American Soldiers. When they made their appearance 
on the street the sight was so magnificent that the immense crowd 
was filled with admiration and they were received with enthusiasm 
along the entire route. After the parade, the Corps was splendidly 
entertained by Mr. Bridges, of the Merchants Hotel, and by Mr. 
Robert Harmer at his home at Broad and Chestnut Streets. 

In the month of January, 1845, the Company gave a subscrip- 
tion ball which was a beautiful sight, the ladies attending, out of 
compliment to the Corps, dressed in white with red ribbons and 
trimmings on their dresses. This like its predecessors, was very 
select, and noted for its sociability. A large number of invited 
guests were present including some Military visitors from New 
York and Albany. 

On February 24th, the Company assembled for parade in the 
afternoon with the Regiment, in honor of AVashington 's Birthday. 
Before leaving the Armory they held a meeting and passed the fol- 
lowing resolutions: 

Resolved, That while they complied with Regimental Orders 
to parade that they protest against the inconsistency of cele- 
brating Washington's Birthday on the 24th, instead of the 22d. 



1845 CITY ORDINANCE— CHANGE IN QUARTERS 79 

A City Ordinance appropriated $20. to each man for a uniform. 
The Washington Grays, State Feneibles. Cadwalader Grays, Wash- 
ington Blues and Mechanic Rifles declined to accept the pro- 
visions of this Ordinance. This plan of uniforming the volunteers 
proved to be a lamentable failure. 

An Ordinance to provide for the preservation of the Peace of 
the City. 

Be it enacted, ^■., That the Brigadier General of the City Bri- 
gade of the Pennsylvania Militia, be requested to report to the 
Councils when a full Regiment of Infantry, a full BattJilion of Ar- 
tillciy, and one or more full troops of Cavalry shall have been 
formed from the present, or any future volunteer corps of his 
Brigade, ready and willing to act within the limits of the City 
and County of Philadelphia, on any emergency in which their 
services may be required by the Mayor or Sheriff to assist in 
maintaining the public peace of the city and county and to re- 
port them, with the muster roll of said Corps respectively. 

Sect. 2. That upon such report being made, the City Treasurer 
shall pay to the proper officer of the Brigade, the sum of twenty 
dollars for each volunteer of their respective corps, to be applied 
to the purchase of accoutrements, and to the necessary arming, 
outfit and equipment of s\ich volunteers, respectively for any serv- 
ice that may be required * * * 

Ordinance of City Councils, July 11th, 1844. 

On the afternoon of May 18th, the Company in fatigue uniform 
proceeded to Camden, Avhere the afternoon was spent in Battalion 
and Company drills. The Company was out in its full strength. 

In the mouth of June the Company changed their quarters from 
Military Hall where they had been for a number of years, to the 
room on the second floor of the building on the northeast corner of 
Eighth and Chestnut Streets,* which they had fitted up in elegant 
manner. On entering their new quarters the following resolution 
was passed : 

Resolved, That for the purpose of preserving order and dis- 
cipline, and prevent confusion at the social gatherings of the 
Company, at their anniversary and other festivities there shall be 
appointed by the Commanding Officer from time to time as he 
shall see fit, six stewards whose duty it shall be to assist the 
Quartermaster in the discharge of his necessary duties, under the 
superintendence of the Commanding Officer, and they shall be 

•The present site of Green's Hotel. 



80 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1845 

obeyed and respected accordingly. Any member reported for vio- 
lation of their orders or a breach of decorum shall be fined $1, 
from the payment of which he shall only be exempted by the 
unanimous vote of the Company. 

On June 12th, the Company paraded to escort the Philadelphia 
Cadets, commanded by Captain White, who were returning from a 
visit to New York. 

On June 26th, the Corps took part in the grand funeral proces- 
sion in honor of the memory of Gen. Andrew Jackson, stopping at 
the hotel of Robert Harmer; after being entertained by the pro- 
prietor, they returned to the Armory. 

The Corps was notified on September 5th of the sudden death 
of our Comrade and Secretary, Reuben P. White. A meeting was 
called and suitable resolutions passed. The day of his funeral, the 
Coi^s paraded and paid the last military honors at his grave. 

On September 8th, the Company paraded to receive the Wash- 
ington Hillerests of Pottsville, Capt. James Nagle, who were mak- 
ing a flying trip to this City. After escorting them through several 
streets they were taken to the Armory where a collation had been 
prepared for them, after which they were taken to their quarters. 
During the afternoon they were entertained by the members, and 
in the evening they were taken to the theatre. On the following 
morning they visited several places of interest, and in the after- 
noon, escorted by the Fencibles, they departed for their homes. 

On September 13th, 1845, the Corps returned to their new Arm- 
ory, corner Eighth and Chestnut Streets, after the repairs and im- 
provements were completed. 

The morning of October 29th the Corps proceeded to Chester 
for their annual target firing, accompanied by a number of guests. 
After the firing they sat down to dinner. Before leaving the table 
the medals were presented. They arrived home early in the even- 
ing. 

On November 10th, the Corps escorted the Washington Grays 
on their return from New York. 

During the month the Corps received from Captains Biddle and 
Kuhn valuable records connected with the original formation of 
the Corps, and its tour of duty in the last war with Great Britain. 

The last parade of the year occurred on December 13th, when 
the Company paraded with the Regiment to attend the funeral of 
the late Commodore Jesse D. Elliott. 



1846 SUBSCKIPTION BALL— TARGET FIRING 81 

On January 12th, 1846, the annual subscription ball was held, 
which like its predecessors, was a magnificent affair and was at- 
tended by the prominent citizens of our City as well as Military 
guests from other cities. 

On May 4th, the Company paraded for target firing in their new 
fatigue roundabout and cap, which was made of blue cloth, single 
breasted. They marched to Hardings Upper Ferry on the west 
side of the Schuylkill River, near Fairmount. After the firing 
dinner w^as served at Harding's Tavern, where they spent an en- 
joyable hour and then marched to the Armory and dismissed. 



CHAPTER VII. 

1846—1853. 

THE MEXICAN WAR — WASHINGTON MEDAL — RETURN OF TROOPS FROM 
WAR — DEATH OF SERGT. WILLIAM RICE — CHANGE IN UNIFORM — PRI- 
VATE JACOB WRAY VISIT TO READING AND POTTSVILLE TARGET FIR- 
ING FENCIBLES AT TACONY — THE PAGE MEDAL — HUNGARIAN PATRI- 
OT LOUIS KOSSUTH — THE PEARL MEDAL — VISIT OF READING RIFLES 
CORPS— MILITIA LAWS — FENCIBLE PUNCH — VISIT OF POTTSVILLE 
LIGHT INFANTRY. 

When Texas came into the Union in January, 1845, she claimed 
as her western boundary the Rio Grande from its mouth to its 
source and then a line due north to 42 degrees. This line was dis- 
puted by Mexico, which claimed that the Nueces River was the 
western boundary of Texas. 

President Polk, however, took the side of Texai?, claimed the 
country as far as the Rio Grande, and in January, 1846, ordered 
Gen. Zachary Taylor to march our army across the Nueces, go to 
the Rio Grande, and occupy the disputed strip. This he did, and 
on April 25th, 1846, the Mexicans crossed the river and attacked the 
Americans. Taylor instantly sent the news to Washington and, 
May 12th, Polk asked for a declaration of war. "Mexico," said he, 
"has passed the boundary of the United States; has invaded our 
territory and shed American blood on American soil." Congress 
declared that war existed, and Polk, on May 13th, 1846, called for 
50,000 volunteers. 

On June 3rd, a requisition was made by the President of the 
United States on the Governor for six regiments of Infantry for 
the Mexican War. 

The impending hostilities between the United States and Mexico 
made it necessarj^ that the Company should perfect itself in drill 
to be prepared to respond to a requisition from Governor Shunk 
to supply any requisition made on Pennsylvania for troops, and 
that the rolls of the Company should at once be prepared and the 
Company be recruited to its full strength and its service!^ ten- 

82 



1846 MEXICAN WAR— MUSTKR ROLL j^3 

dered to the Governor. Those not desiring to remain were advised 
to report at once so that the vacancy might be tilled and that the 
roll be sent to the Adjutant General to offer the services of the 
Corps. 

The roll was subsequently sent to Harrisburg. the quoto of the 
State having already been filled by volunteers, their services were 
not accepted as a body. Later a number of the members volun- 
teered in other regiments and participated in many of the battles 
in Mexico, three of whom lost their lives. The following is the roll 
of those who volunteered : 

Capt. William F. Small. Capt. R. B. ]\raeey, Lieut. R. Crittendon, 
Lieut. Orlando Griffith, Sergt. William Rice* 

Privates — George Gardner, Charles B. Packer,* B. P. Button, 
Andrew Butler, Samuel Brown, Theodore Hesser. David B. Scheble, 
Jacob Stapleton, James Anderson, Thomas Punston, Thomas Mc- 
Clintock.* 

During the continuance of the war the members were very active 
in giving their assistance and caring for the families of the sol- 
diers who were away fighting the battles of their country in Mex- 
ico, and lending their aid to other organized bodies for that pur- 
pose. 

Notwithstanding the fact that many of the members were at the 
front the Pencibles at home were very active. 

Daily Kfijstonc of May 8, 1846, said: 

A few (lays sinee we were shown a beautiful miniature like- 
ness of Washington, surrounded by a rich gold frame, and con- 
taining on the reverse a lock of Washington's hair, beneath a 
covering of glass. The following inscription on the same side tells 
its history and the use for which it was designed: "This picture 
and the hair of Washington were presented by T. E. Barratt and 
Thos. F. Goodwin to the State Fencibles, January 1st, 1846, and 
the same were caused to be set in gold by the members for a 
company Meilal. ' ' The likeness is painted by Mr. Barratt in 
his best style, and the hair presented by Gen. Goodwin. The 
frame of the medal cost $40, and is of the richest description. 
The medal will be the prize for the best shot at the target firing, 
to take place on the next regular parade of the company. | 



tSe€ Medals page 18S. 

•Died from disease contracted in the service. 



84 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1846 

A newspaper said : 

Among the multiplicity of likenesses taken of the "Great 
Captain, ' ' Gen. Andrew Jackson, it is very natural that some of 
them would be more or less incorrect. From our knowledge of the 
' ' Patriot and Sage, ' ' the one painted by John W. Dodge, Esq., 
of New York, in 1843, is to our mind, at least, the best resem- 
blance extant, the influential certificates accompanying it, and the 
rapidity of its sale, being the surest proof of its excellence. There 
is a peculiarity about "The General's" expression of counte- 
ance indicative of his character and indigenous firmness of decis- 
ion, if we may so express it, alike invulnerable and unchanging, 
and when once seen is never forgotten. 

We are led to these remarks from being shown a picture of the 
"Immortal Jackson," at the State Fencibles' Ball on Monday 
evening last. It was worn by one of the members of the Com- 
pany, and is an admirable transcript of the "Man ot iron nerve," 
but it lacks that peculiar expression mentioned above, and is 
drawn too young to correspond with his remarkable gray hair. 
Nevertheless, it is a most beautiful picture, executed in a praise- 
worthy manner on porcelain, and set in a superb gold case, chased 
and otherwise ornamented, (a present of no ordinary value) and 
bearing the following inscription: — 

"This likeness of the 'Hero of New Orleans,' and a lock of 
his hair, were presented by Col. James Page, to the State Fenci- 
bles, January 1st, 1846."* 

We yesterday called at the rooms of Mr. Thomas E. Barratt, 
miniature painter, Chestnut Street below Fifth, and were shown 
by that talented artist, two beautiful pictures executed by him- 
self and set in costly gold cases, handsomely ornamented, rep- 
resenting the Father of his Country, General Washington; and 
our esteemed fellow-citizen. Col. James Page, intended to be pre- 
sented to the Company of State Fencibles, for the purpose of 
testing their skill in target firing. The admirable finish of these 
two pictures, and the correct resemblance of features, deservedly 
reflect great credit upon the superior workmanship of Mr. Barratt 
and stamp him as first in the art of painting in this city. The 
"Gallant Colonel" is taken with his scarlet uniform, which 
materially improves the beauty of the picture; added to which the 
close fitting and upright collar, the bland smile and the lofty 
brow, all taken together present quite an imposing and military 
appearance. The following is the inscription on the back of 
each picture: 

"This picture of Col. James Page, was presented to the State 
Fencibles, by Lieut. Robert J. Park, January 1st, 1846." 

* See Medals page 188. 



1846 TENDER OF SERVICE— DECLARATION OF PEACE 85 

On October 29th, the Corps took part in the funeral escort and 
interment of Commodore Stephen Decatur, U. S. N., at St. Peter's, 
Third and Pine Streets. 

November 9th, a musket from the field at Resaea de la Palma 
was presented by Capt. R. B. Macy, U. S. A. ; on the same evening 
Captain Macy and Lieutenant Crittendon, U. S. A., were elected 
Honorary members. 

November 23rd, the use of the Armorj' was granted to ladies 
Avho were raising a fund for the erection of a monument to the 
memory of Capt. Nathan Hale. A contribution was also made by 
the Corps. 

On December 18th, in anticipation of a second call for troops 
for the war it was resolved to tender the services of the Company, 
which was done, and the roll sent to Harrisburg, but the early end- 
ing of the war rendered it unnecessary for another requisition and 
the Company was not mustered into service. 

A detachment of State Fencibles vinder the command of Lieut. 
S. Goldey sent to Baltimore to participate in the funeral cere- 
monies of Major Ringgold, U. S. A., killed at the battle of Palo 
Alto, Mexico. The detachment consisted of Lieut. R. J. Park, 
Sergts. A. P. Hesser and Stewart, Corporals Vallee and Sam Buck, 
Privates Robert Wood, Fred. Boley, E. Killingsworth, Benj. Strat- 
ton and AVm, VanHook. Corporal Vallee subsequently served in 
the Civil War, and was promoted to the rank of Colonel. 

In the early part of March, 1847, the Corps paraded with the 
Regiment to take part in the ceremonies at the reinterment of 
Lieutenant Blake, U. S. A., killed in Mexico. 

On April 19th, occurred the general illumination in this City in 
honor of the establishment of peace between the United States and 
Mexico. The Armory was brilliantly illuminated with candles, 
for in those days oil lamps and candles were in general use and 
it is not very easy to form an idea of the difference in brilliancy of 
illumination then, from what we find at the present day with gas 
and electric lights. 

The Company paraded for target firing on May 10th, marching 
to the parade ground back of the prison ; and on the 17th, they pa- 
raded with the Regiment for inspection. 

The arrangements having been completed to visit Mt. Holly 
N. J., to celebrate the Anniversary of Independence Day, July 4th, 
the Company assembled in fatigue uniforms, July 3rd, prepared to 



86 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1847 

proceed to that town. It being the desire of the citizens, of that 
place, that the Company should wear the scarlet uniforms, they 
were sent in advance. The Company marched to the wharf and 
embarked on the Steamer Barclay, commanded by Capt. Barclay 
Haines, which proceeded up the Rancocas River to Steamboat Hotel 
where they were tendered every kindness by the host, Mr. Davis. 
The Company was received by General Frick and an escort of 
National Guards under command of Captain Forker. 

On the morning of the 4th. a general parade was made and a 
salute fired. Early in the afternoon the Corps was entertained by 
Mr. and Mrs. Humphries, who represented the citizens of Mt. Holly. 
Every one was imbued with the idea of making the visit of the 
Corps pleasant. 

On the morning of the 5th, the Company embarked for home, 
regretting to leave so many good friends behind. After a con- 
gratulatory address from the Captain they dismissed. 

The annual target firing was held on October 25th. The Com- 
pany marched to the steamboat wharf and embarked for Bristol, 
with a number of invited guests, some of whom were to act as 
judges. After the firing, the Company and their friends sat down 
to dinner at which the medals were then presented to the successful 
winners. Two hours were spent in wit and humor, which always 
distinguished these sittings of the Fencibles. 

During the year, the Corps received the news of the death of 
Sergt. "William Rice, a member of the Company, who served as 
a volunteer in Mexico, participating in the battle of Cerro Gordo ; 
the storming of Chapultepec, and at the gates of the City of Mexico 
and bearing testimonials for his bravery, died from disease con- 
tracted in line of duty. "He was spared by the sword but cut off 
by disease." He was buried with Military honors by the Corps 
in Palmer's Ground, Kensington. 

In the month of January, 1848, the Company gave one of their 
delightful subscription balls. The proceeds were given to the city 
committee who were organized for the relief of the families of the 
volunteers serving in Mexico. 

During the month of April, the Company paraded with the Regi- 
ment, tendering a reception to the returning volunteers from 
Mexico. 

During the same month the Company decided to abandon the 



1848 PARADE— TROOPS IN MKXICAX WAR gy 

bear skin shako, and adopt the leather hat of the U. S. Army regu- 
lation, and black pants instead of blue. 

In the month of IMay, the Corps paraded with the 1st Regiment 
to welcome home their old Commander, Gen. George Cadwaiader. 
who had done gallant service in Mexico, and who rode at the head 
of his Brigade on that occasion. In the same month they paraded 
with the Regiment at the funeral of Captain Ayres, of that Regi- 
ment. 

From the Ledger 4' Transcript. 

Philadelphia, Thursday, July 20, 1848. 

Our Volunteers. — The reception given to the volunteers re- 
turned from Mexico, by their brother volunteers of our city, 
will be warm and true. Many companies of those who will form 
the procession, stepped forward and offered their services to the 
Governor at the time volunteers were needed, but as the number 
could not exceed two regiments from this State, they could not 
be accepted. It is interesting at this time to refer to the names 
of those companies. The following list is copied from the Adju- 
tant General's Office at Harrisburg: 

Patterson Guards, Capt. W. A. Stokes, Lieutenant Woolworth — 
77 men. 

Steuben Fusileers, Arnold Seiferd, Angroth — 72 men. 

Independent Guards, Edward Chandler Tybee, Nichuels — 77 
men. 

National Guards, S. B. Kingston, Wilson, McGee — 77 men. 

State Fencibles, Jas. Page, Middleton, Parke — 78 men. 

State Fencibles, 2nd Co., Jos. Murray, Robertson — 77 men. 

Washington Blues, W. C. Patterson, Patterson and Shutt — 
77 men. 

*City Guards, Jos. Hill, Tully, Vincent — 77 men. 

Lafayette Light Guards, A. G. Smith, Pierce, Berry — 88 men. 

National Artillery, J. K. Murphy, Ward and Sinex — 82 men. 

Philadelphia Repeal Volunteers, Wm. Dixon, Holland, Sweeney 
— 79 men. 

*Monroe Guards, William F. Small — 77 men. 

Frankford Artillery, J. F. Pechell, Pugh and Duffield — 81 men. 

National Grays, Peter Fritz, Thorpe and Clause — 85 men. 

*Cadwalader Grays, R. K. Scott, Breech and Palmer — 84 men. 

Union Fencibles, R. M. Lee, Miller Winslow, Jr. — 84 men. 

*Philadelphia Light Guards, John Bennet, Higs and Tomlin- 
son — 84 men. 

Philadelphia Grays, Geo. Cadwaiader, Vance and Hanna — 82 
men 

Harrison Blues, W. Hicks Graham, McCollough and Yorke — 83 
men. 



88 ONE HUNDEED YEAKS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1848 

*Washington Light Infantry, F. W. Binder, Kritchmer — 80 men. 

Washington National Guard, John Eeiss, Vagner — 78 men. 

Irish Volunteers, A. J. Brazier, Williams and Pomroy — 77 men. 

Montgomery Guards, Eush Van Dyke, Marlow and Eiley — 
79 men. 

*Jefferson Guards, Morehead, Mont. P. Young and Bryan — 79 
men. 

Tyler Guards, Eobt. Tyler, Kennedy, Carrigan — 84 men. 

Junior Artillerists, Fred. Fritz, Lawson — 77 men. 

Germantown Blues, J. D. Miles, Hagner and Cox — 81 men, 

Jackson Artillery, Jacob Hubeli, Larantree — 76 men. 

On August 21st, the Corps proceeded to Bristol for target fir- 
ing and dinner, and, as usual, spent a pleasant day with their 
friends at the festive board. 

The year 1849, proved to be a very quiet year as far as military 
demonstrations were concerned. 

The closing of the war produced a stagnation in business and 
the attention of every one was drawn to their business interests 
entirely. In January, the Company repeated their yearly subscrip- 
tion ball which was a delightful affair, although conditions were 
not favorable for such an undertaking. 

On February 26th, the Corps escorted the Lafayette Guards of 
New York through the city in a drenching rain. 

On April 19th, the resignation of Lieut. John Miller was ac- 
cepted and his name placed on the Honorary Roll. 

On May 28th, the Company went on one of their target excur- 
sions to Bristol, and on October 28th, had their annual target fir- 
ing on the ground back of the prison, and partook of a collation 
furnished by the stewards on their return to the Armory. 

J'anuary 21st, 1850, a ball was held at Musical Fund Hall. An 
election was held for officers on August 20th of this year with 
the following results: Captain, James Page; 1st Lieut., A. P, 
Hesser; 2nd Lieut., B. J. Williams; 3rd Lieut., Thomas H. Mar- 
ston ; 4th Lieut., Benj. Stratton. 

During the year the Company lost one of its officers. Lieutenant 
Middleton and Priv. Jacob Wray, who were journeying to the land 
of gold, California. Private Wray, although separated from his 
comrades by thousands of miles, and laboring in the wilds of that 
country, treasured his love for them and never forgot his comrades, t 



•Companies accepted and went to war. 
t See Wray Medal page 188. 



1850 TARGET FIRING— FUNERAL— ANNIVERSARY 89 

In the latter part of May, 1850, the Company accepted an in- 
vitation to visit Germantown for their target firing. The Corps 
assembled early in the morning and proceeded to that town where 
the firing took place. 

So many invitations were received by the Corps to accept hos- 
pitalities prior to this trip that it was left to the discretion of the 
Commander which to accept, as it was impossible to accept all. The 
Corps returned to the city early in the evening after spending a 
delightful day. 

On July 12th, the Company took part in the mock funeral cere- 
monies, which took place in this city, of the President of the United 
States, the late Zachary Taylor, who rendered gallant service on the 
fields of ]\Iexico. The day was intensely hot and on the return of 
the Company to their quarters, they were invited by Messrs. Brige 
and West, proprietors of the Jones Hotel, to partake of much- 
needed refreshments which greatly improved their condition. Suit- 
able resolutions were passed by the Company, lamenting the death 
of the President. 

On July 22nd, the Company assembled in full uniform £or the 
purpose of visiting Keading and Pottsville, where they were splen- 
didly entertained by their Military friends and others in both 
places. The trip occupied four days and was a continuous ova- 
tion. The Corps returned to the city on the evening of the fourth 
day pleased with their reception which was never to be forgotten 
by those participating. 

On October 26th, the annual target firing took place on the 
ground back of the prison, as follows: 

J. V. McElwee, Washington Medal, 11 1/^ 
Eobt. Jones, Jackson Medal, .... 9% 

F. Vollmer, Page Medal, 8% 

W. Vanhook, Lorde Medal,* 18 

J. Miller, Musket Medal, 22 

Corporal Leans tied Private Miller but waived his claim. 
Fifty-seven balls of 100 fired struck the board. 

The annual dinner was postponed until November 4th, when 
they assembled in the Armory and after partaking of the good 
things placed before them, the cloth was removed, and speeches 
were made by Captain Page and many of the invited guests. 

•Presented by Lieut. E. H. Lorde, of Light Guard, New York, November 9, 1835. 



4% 


5 1-16 


21 3-16 


13% 


8 


31% 


91/2 


15% 


33 Va 


28 Vs 


1% 


47 ys 


11 y^ 


20^2 


53% 



90 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1850 

Toasts were made and songs were sung and at a late hour, after 
the singing of "Auld Lang Syne," all were dismissed. 

A former Commander sent the following, in answer to an invi- 
tation, to be present: 

NOVKMBER n, 1850. 

Dear Sm: 

I have it not in my power to comply with the flattering re- 
quest contained in your note, received on Saturday, as I am 
not the possessor of what you require. I must, therefore, con- 
tent myself with praying you to receive my sincere thanks for 
the honor you intended to confer on me. 

Respectfully truly yours, 

Hartman Kuhn, 
Chestnut Street. 
To Colonel Page. 

On February 10th, 1851, a ball was held at Musical Fund Hall, 
and on May 12th, the Company paraded in fatigue uniform and pro- 
ceeded to Camden for the purpose of having a skeleton drill, at 
which a number of Battalion movements were performed and ex- 
plained. This drill was performed with ropes of the proper lengths 
with handles on each end for a man to grasp with which two men 
would represent the front of a platoon or section and proved a very 
successful experiment. This was often done in the Armory with 
but few men. 

On June 20th, the Compan^y paraded in Summer uniform to es- 
cort the Tompkins Blues on their arrival in this City as guests of 
the National Grays. 

Gardes Lafayette.* 

New York, le 14 Juillet 1851. 
Monsieur Le Colonei,: 

Notre Secretaire M. L. Lefevre m'a bien remis votre aimable 
lettre du 5 courant, accompagnant le joli hausse col que vous 
m'avez adresse au nom des Membres de la Compagnie State 
Fencibles de Philadelphie, pour la Compagnie des Gardes Lafay- 
ette de New York. Veuillez, Monsieur, agreer mes sinceres remes- 
ciements et ceux de tous mes camasades pour cette marque d'es- 
time de votre part et soyez bien persuade que votre nom, celui de 



A Free Translation. 

Guards Lafayette. 

New York July 14th. 1851 
Monsieur the Colonel : 

Our Secretary, Mr. Lefevre, has just diellvered to me your kind letter 
of the 5th instant, accompanying the handsome hausse col that you 
have addressed to me in the name of the members of the company, State 



1851 LETTER— TARGET FIRING— PRESENTATION 9^ 

votre compaguie et le souvenir de notre entrevue en fevrier 1849 
■ont restes grave dans le cceur des Gardes Lafayette. 

M. Lefevre, absent pour quelques jours, tout en nie priant, de 
vous presenter les respects, m 'a egalement charg^ de vous ex- 
primer, ainsi qu'a votre digne Sergent, le vif regret qu'il a 
eprouv^ de ne pas s'etre trouvo chez lui au moment de la visite 
de Martin Leans le fidele interprete des sentiments de vos braves 
State Fencibles. 

Daignez agrcer, Monsieur le Colonel, les salutations tres em- 
press^es de votre tout dovoue serviteur. 

Louis .1. Leclere, 
Cap. des Gardes Lafayette. 
Monsieur Le Colonel James Page, Philadelphia. 

On July 9th. the Compan}' entertained the commissioned and 
non-commissioned officers of the Regiment of Governors Guards 
of New York, in the Armory which was beautifully decorated for 
the occasion, and on the 10th, the Company, in full dress uniform, 
with white pants, paraded as escort on their departure for home. 

On November 10th, the Company assembled for their annual tar- 
get firing. Marching to the wharf they took the steamboat Ed^^^n 
Forrest, Capt. Mc. ]\Iackin, who generously tendered the use of 
his boat to the Corps and proceeded to Tacony. After the firing, 
the Company sat down to a dinner prepared by Mr. Torbert, which 
was served in the most liberal manner. The Company was honored 
by the presence of Col. W. R. Burnett, Captain Dougherty, W. H. 
Moore and James Torbert, Esq., who were the judges of the firing, 
ex-Lieuts. Robert J. Park and John Miller, several of the old mem- 
bers, and a number of friends. Beck's Philadelphia Band dis- 
coursed some beautiful music. 

Before leaving the Armory that morning. Captain Page was sur- 
prised by the presentation of a beautiful gold medal from the 
members of the Company as a token of regard for him as an ofBcer, 
and their esteem for him as a man. The presentation was made by 
Lieut. A. P. Hesser, and responded to by the Captain in his usual 

Fencibles of Philadelphia, for the company of the Lafayette Guards of 
New York. Have the kindness to accept. Monsieur, my sincere thanks 
and those of all my comrades for this mark of your esteem, and rest well 
assured that your name, that of your company and the remembrance 
of your interview in February 1849, remaines engraved upon the 
hearts of the Lafayette Guards. 
Mr. Lefevre, absent for several days, requesting me to present to you 
• his respects, charges me to express to you, as well as to your worthy 

sergeant, the keen regret he felt in having been absent from home at the 
time of the visit of Mr. Martin Leans, the faithful interpreter of the 
sentiment of your brave State Fencible. Kindly accept the sincere salu- 
tations of your servants. Loias .1. Lkclkrk. 

Cnftain of the Lafayette Guards. 



92 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1851 

happy strain. This medal, after his death, was returned to the 
Corps by his family, to be worn by the oldest member in point of 
service.* " i 

December 23rd, the Company paraded to escort to their quarters 
the Companies from Pottsville and Reading, who had come to the 
city to take part in the reception of the Hungarian Patriot, Louis 
Kossuth, who was to arrive in this City on the 24th. They were 
looked after by the members during the evening, and on the 24th, 
the Company paraded with the Division which escorted the dis- 
tinguished visitor to his quarters at the United States Hotelf on 
Chestnut Street. That evening the Company, in full uniform, ac- 
companied by some friends and ladies, proceeded to the hotel to 
present to the Hungarian Patriot, a beautiful gold medal, given by 
one of its members, Martin M. Leans, and a purse of $100 in gold 
given by the Company. The medal consists of a maltese cross of 
silver with clasp, chain and locket with a lock of Washington's 
hair. The miniature was set around with pearls and the Masonic 
star radiating therefrom. Between the arms of the cross two 
swords cross with their hilts downward, while above is a pen, il- 
lustrating that "The pen is mightier than the sword." Upon the 
back is inscribed, "Presented to Louis Kossuth, the Patriot of 
Hungary, and friend of humanity, by an American Volunteer," 
and at the bottom, "There is no difficulty to him who wills." 

The presentation was made in an eloquent manner by Captain 
Page as follows: 

"GovKRNOR Kossuth. — In behalf of one of its members Sergt. 
Martin Leans, the State Eencibles wait upon you in a body to 
offer you a token of his warm admiration for you as a states- 
man and a patriot, an admiration that we his comrades fully 
share. He is one of the citizen soldierly in our land "whose 
bayonet thinks," and we desire you to look upon his gift as an 
evidence of that fervid sentiment of liberty which not only per- 
vades our military ranks, but is common to the hearts of the 
whole American people. It is embellished with the likeness of 
Washington, and made more precious as a testimonial by a lock 
of his hair. He gave us freedom, we hope that prostrate and 
bleeding Hungary may yet find a Washington in you. That her 
independence, usurped but not lost, may be restored and firmly 
re-established, and that you may preside over her destinies, to 

*See Page Medal page 188. 

t The United! States Hotel in 1851, was on the north side of Chestnut Street, between 
Fourth and Fifth Streets. 



1851 SPEECHES OF CAPTAIN PAGE AND GOVERNOR KOSSUTH 93 

adorn ami strengthen her in the days of her prosperity and happi- 
ness, as you have been true to her in the hours of adversity and 
trial. 

In the sacred cause of your fatherland may you not only have 
the sympathies of the friends of freedom here, but everywhere, 
and also the active and efficient aid, and we trust that no sinister 
influences of any sort will be permitted to dampen the generous 
and truthful impulse which now sways the public mind. * » ♦ 
To you then as the eloquent and fearless champion of liberty, 
the friend and brother of man, the representative of liberal 
principles and noble doctrines, whose proud mission is to uphold 
among the nations of the old world, the banner of civil and re- 
ligious freedom, we present this medal at the request of the giver, 
"An American Volunteer," with a prayer as deep and as fervent 
as ever ascended from the hearts of freeman to the God of Bat- 
tles. That your soul's great aim may be accomplished in the re- 
demption of your belove'd Hungary from her fiendish oppressors, 
and that through it may come the emancipation of the down- 
trodden sons of Europe, and as we know that mere sympathy 
amounts to but little in a physical struggle for human rights 
against the powers of despotism, we give that something else 
so necessary to success, in this purse as our mite in aid of the 
Hungarian fund. 

Governor Kossuth replied as follows: 

"I thank you sir for this manifestation of your kindness and 
operative sympathy, it is substantial aid you are pleased to give 
to the cause of my downtrodden Hungary, and the cause of so 
many nations connected with it." Then turning to Sergeant 
Leans said : "To you sir it is more than thanks I give for this 
valuable and beautiful present containing the likeness and lock 
of hair of your great and good Washington, the glorious star of 
American freedom. Overpowered as I am with sentiments and 
overcome as I am M'ith fatigue, it is scarcely possible for me to 
show or tell the value I will put upon this happy testimonial. I 
promise you gentlemen that this precious gift of yours I will 
carry back to Hungary, and when at the head of the bravest of 
the brave leading them on to battle in the struggle of Hun- 
garian freedom and independence. I trust it will so inspire me 
as to prove victorious in the great cause of liberty as was your 
immortal Washington. 

This gift will ever be kept in proud remembrance of the oc- 
casion on which it was presented, and if the man on whose like- 
ness I shall often look in my efforts to break the fetters which 
bind my unfortunate country, and preserve to her people that in- 
estimable boon, liberty. Again I thank you, sir, again I thank 
you gentlemen for the handsome likeness of Washington and the 
lock of his hair, and for this substantial aid." 



94 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1851 

(This reference made in the conclusion of the Governor's speech 
was to the $100 in gold which Captain Page handed to him with 
the medal). 

The Fencibles and guests gave a hearty cheer for Louis Kossuth 
and Hungary,* and after all had been introduced to him they de- 
parted to assemble at the Toutine House, where they were enter- 
tained by Lieutenants Williams and Stratton. Sergt. Martin Leans 
was elected an Honorary member of the Corps. 

One of the features of the reception of Kossuth in the city was 
the triumphal arch the Corps erected spanning Chestnut Street in 
front of the Armory, beautifully decorated with National colors and 
flags of all nations with words in large letters: 

The State Fencibles Welcome 

the hungarlvn patriot to 

THE Land of Liberty. 

December 15th, 1851, a committee of 20 from the Fencibles was 
appointed to unite with the Washington Grays. National Guards 
and Tompkins Blues to escort the Reading and Pottsville Com- 
panies. 

The first parade recorded in 1852 was the Spring target firing 
which took place at Tacony, on the Delaware River above the city. 
The Company left the Armory in the morning and marched to 
Arch Street wharf and embarked on the steamer Edwin Forrest. 
Before starting the Company presented the proprietors of the boat 
with a beautiful flag bearing an appropriate emblem and inscrip- 
tion, which was raised to its proper position amid the cheers of the 
Company. The Messrs. McMackins were old members of the Com- 



*Lajos (Louis) Kossuth was born at Monok in the County of Zemplin, Sept. 19th, 
1802. In 1825 he was appointed Deputy at the National Diet in Pressburg. While in 
office he wrote many letters on the subject of reform. The government tried to sup- 
press these letters and in 18-37 with several others Kossuth was arrested for High 
Treason. After one year in prison at Ofen he was tried and condemned to prison 
for a term of four years. The popular feeling in sympathy with him caused his re- 
lease in 1840. In 1847 he was elected a full member for Budapest in the New Diet. 
He rapidly gained strength politically until August, 1848, when he was forced to abdi- 
cate in favor of Gorgei on the ground that in the last extreme, the General alone 
could save the nation. Kossuth was later held captive and in September, 1851, lib- 
erated and embarked on an American Man of War. He landed at Marseilles, and 
then went to Southampton and later to America. He returned to England where he 
lived eight years and left for Italy. In 1879 a law was passed which deprived all 
Hungarians who had been voluntarily absent for 10 years from their rights of citi- 
zenship. This was a very bitter blow to him. He died in Turin, March 20th, 1894 ; 
his body was taken to Perth for burial. A bronze statue, erected by public subscrip- 
tion, in the Kereps Cemetery commemorates Hungary's purest patriot, and greatest 
orator. 



1«51 PRESENTATION OF MEDAL— PARADE 95 

pany, and were ever ready to lend their aid in all their undertak- 
ings, and their boat was ahvays at the disposal of the Feneibles on 
their trips up the river, without charge. On arriving at Tacony, 
Captain Page presented the Company with a beautiful gold medal 
to be one of the prizes of the target. It was a shield of gold and 
in the centre was a silver medallion of Gen. Andrew Jackson sur- 
rounded with a wTeath of pearls, the whole attached to a pin with 
chain of gold. It was called the pearl medal and is still treasured 
in the Corps.* After the firing the Company sat down to dinner 
with the .judges and friends. The judges on this occasion were 
George D. Hasswell, John Thornley, and Theo. Schreiber, Esqs. 
Beck's Band of Philadelphia accompanied the excursion. 

Boston, Mass., April 29, 1852. 
Col. James Page, 

Bear Sir: — I have received your letter of the 21st inst., in- 
forming me that you have sent a draft to the Mechanics' Bank 
in New York for $250 to be placed to my credit. I am very much 
obliged to you for your kindness and the trouble you have had in 
forwarding the cause of Hungary, and though the pecuniary re- 
sult of our endeavors in Philadelphia was not great, yet T know 
that the zeal of the friends of my cause has not abated, and 1 
hope that before I leave the United States I shall yet have the 
pleasure to return to them and especially to you dear sir, my 
cordial thanks for their actions. 

With sincere regards. Yours sincerely, 

L. Kossuth. 

In the following month of May the Company decided on the ne- 
cessity of changing the dress uniforms, accordingly, they adopted a 
fatigue uniform similar to that worn by the U. S. Army. It con- 
sisted of a single-breasted frock coat, black pants, buff stripe, regu- 
lar army cap, and w^hite belt, to be worn until a new dress uniform 
be adopted and completed. 

On July 2nd, the Corps united in the reception of the remains of 
the late Hon. Henry Clay. 

On July 4th. the Corps paraded with the 1st Regiment, in com- 
pliance with orders, to properly celebrate the day; after the Regi- 
ment reached its position on Sixth Street below Chestnut and were 
dismissed by Colonel Fairlamb. the Captain was requested by Sergt. 
Ambrose White to march the Company to the American Hotel, of 
which he was proprietor and accept his hospitality. Here the Corps 

* See Pearl Medal page 188. 



96 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1851 

spent a pleasant hour. They then marched to the Armory and 
were dismissed. 

On October 25th, the Corps paraded for their Fall target firing 
proceeding to the ground back of the prison. On returning to the 
Armory they were surprised to find a handsome collation spread 
for them by the retired members of the Corps. Ample justice was 
done to the many good things set before them. Speeches were made 
by Captain Page and others. 

In the early part of November the Corps received and enter- 
tained the Reading Rifle Corps, who visited our City. 

On November 16th, an election was held for 2nd Lieutenant, 
Thomas H. Marston was unanimously chosen. After the adjourn- 
ment the Corps partook of a collation prepared by the new Lieu- 
tenant and the festivities were kept up until a late hour. 

At the end of the year the Corps removed their quarters to the 
fourth floor of the building which they occupied, where there was 
more floor space for drill purposes. 

During this year the Legislature passed an Act as follows : 

Extract from "An Act for the Encouragement of the Volun- 
teers of the City and County of Philadelphia," approved 
March 20, 1852. 

Section 1. Be it enacted, ^c, That every free, able bodied 
white male person, between the age of twenty-one and forty-five, 
residing within the bounds of the first military division of this 
Commonwealth, who is not exempt from military duty by existing 
laws, shall be subject to a fine of one dollar per annum to be 
assessed and collected at the same time and in the same manner 
as the fines of delinquent militia men are required to be assessed 
and collected, by the act entitled "An Act to revise the Military 
system, and provide for the training of such only as shall be 
uniformed," passed seventeenth of April, one thousand eight 
hundred and forty-nine: Provided, that any person liable to 
the aforesaid fine may become a contributing member of, and pay 
the same to, any volunteer company duly organized according 
to law, the certificate of whose membership, signed by the Captain 
or Commanding Ofiicer of such corps, shall be evidence of such 
payment, and shall exonerate the holder from the payment of the 
said fine to the person now authorized by law to collect the same. 

Section 4. That in addition to the exemption provided for by 
existing laws, every person who shall be properly uniformed and 
enrolled, and who shall faithfully serve as an officer or member of 
any volunteer company or companies, duly organized according 



1852 FUNERAL— PARADE— INDEPENDENCE DAY 97 

to law, in the first military division shall be exempt during the 
period of service from serving on any jury in any of the Courts 
of this Commonwealth. 

The funeral of the venerable Douglass, was attended on Sun- 
day evening, by the Corps under the command of Colonel Page. 
Col. Richard M. Johnson followed immediately after the remains 
of the veteran in an open coach, with his head uncovered. The 
ceremonies were of the most imposing, solemn and appropriate char- 
acter. The Philadelphia Gazette gives the following well merited 
enconium : 

"The Company of Fencibles, under the command of Colonel 
Page, displayed a degree of military skill and precision in their 
evolutions, which we verily believe would have done honor to the 
finest volunteer company in Europe. In their honorary salute 
over the remains of the deceased at the grave, they surpassed any 
firing of the sort that ever came under our observation. The dis- 
charge was like that of one loud cannon; each gun blended its re- 
port with the other, and the heavy solemn roar of the whole, was 
absolutely unbroken, and as the effect of many, indistinguish- 
able. Colonel Page has reason to be proud of such a company, 
and the company of such a Colonel. ' ' 

The first parade on record for 1853, occurred on ]\Iay 30th, when 
the Company proceeded to Gloucester Point for target firing. 
After the firing was completed they marched to the hotel and with 
the judges and invited guests sat down to dinner. After the prizes 
were distributed they returned to the city , 

On July 4th. the usual parade in honor of the day was made, 
and on returning to the Armory the Company was presented with 
a beautiful painted water cooler, cups, and buckets by the firm of 
Melloy and Ford, who were members of the Corps. It had 
previously been filled with the celebrated "Fencible Punch," 
which the members and their friends proceeded to sample. This 
celebrated concoction was used by the Fencibles for many years 
to strengthen the nerves of their many visitors. The following is 
the receipt : Three pounds of sugar, 1 quart lemon .juice, 1 quart 
brandy, 2 quarts Jamaica rum, 1 quart peach brandy. 1 bottle 
champagne, 3 quarts water, 12 poimds ice. After emptying the 
cooler, they dismissed to assemble at the Armory at 3 o'clock in 
citizens dress to pass the remainder of the day in an appropriate 
manner, of course, the cooler had not been neglected. 
7 



98 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1853 

In October, the Company paraded to receive the Pottsville Light 
Infantry, which arrived at the depot, Broad and Vine Streets, after 
escorting them through some of the streets they were then taken 
to the Armory where a collation had been prepared by Thomas C. 
Rockhill. After spending a pleasant time the line of march was 
then taken up and they were escorted to their quarters, after which 
they were taken charge of by the members of the Corps, who spent 
the evening and the next day showing them places of interest. 
The next morning the Corps, accompanied by Bancker's Martial 
Band, escorted them to the depot where they left for home. 

During the latter part of the month of October the Fall target 
firing took place on the grounds back of the prison. Col. John 
Thornley, Dr. Wm. Wetherill, and Stephen Anderson, Esq., act- 
ing as judges. 



CHAPTER VIII. %^ { 

1854—1860. 



VISIT OF NATIONAL GRAYS — VISIT TO FATLAND PRESENTATION OP 

WRAY MEDAL VISIT OF CITY BLUES OF PATERSON — TARGET FIRING 

NATIONAL GUARDS — NEW UNIFORMS DEATH OF COL. CLEMENT C. 

BIDDLE— LAYING CORNERSTONE ARMORY NATIONAL GUARDS — IN 
SPECTION — VISIT OF WASHINGTON ARTILLERISTS — ORGANIZATION OF 
DRUM CORPS — CHANGE OF ARMORY — EXCURSION TO NEW YORK — 

PRESENTATION OF STAFF MEDAL REUNION OF SURVIVORS OF CAMP 

DU PONT — MAYOR HENRY 's SPEECH — SHADOWS OF THE COMING 
CIVIL WAR — ANNIVERSARY OF FENCIBLES — LETTERS — RESOLUTIONS. 

The first demonstration for this year was March 10th, 1854. 
The Company assembled at the Armory in the afternoon for the 
purpose of receiving the National Guard of Harrisburg, who ar- 
rived at the depot 18th and Market Streets, commanded by Captain 
Williams. After escorting them to their quarters they were taken 
in charge by the members of the Corps. The following morning 
they departed for home. 

On May 15th, in compliance with orders from the Brigade In- 
spector, the Corps paraded with the Brigade for the regular in- 
spection. The Brigade formed on Broad Street, south of Federal. 
After a review, by Gen. George Cadwalader, they paraded through 
some of the principal streets in the city and then dismissed. 

An invitation was received from Dr. Wm. Wetherill for the 
Corps to spend a day and night on his farm at Fatland, Mont- 
gomery County, on the occasion of the Spring target firing ; prom- 
ising to make the trip as pleasant as possible. The invitation was 
accepted, and on May 23rd, the Corps assembled at the Armor.y at 
an early hour in the morning and boarded a Reading railroad train 
for Port Kennedy. Reaching there at 8 o'clock, they marched up 
the old mule path to the ferry below Valley Forge, where a barge 
was in readiness to convey them across the river to one of those 
beautiful meadows which line the banks of the river in that vi- 
cinity. Here they were welcomed by Dr. Wetherill, who assured 

99 



100 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1854 

them that they were the first troops that had trod those classic 
grounds since the memorable Washington on his march to Winter 
quarters at Valley Forge. After partaking of refreshments the fir- 
ing commenced. Dr. Wetherill, Col. Wm. F. Small, S. D. Ander- 
son, Esq.. Maj. John Schwartz, and Maj. A. Jordan Schwartz, of 
Heading; James Freeborn and William ^iftitter, of Chester, acted 
as judges. The firing was ended at 12 o'clock. The Company 
then formed and marched to the mansion where a superb and 
bountiful entertainment was prepared for them, under an artifical 
arbor, decorated with flags and flowers. After dinner speeches 
were made by Captain Page, Dr. Wetherill, Major Schwartz, 
Stephen D. Anderson, Col. Wm. F. Small, and Major Bid- 
die, of Reading, who served in a Mississippi Regiment in the 
Mexican War. The ladies were not forgotten on this occasion, a 
large number of whom were from Chester and Montgomery Coun- 
ties, as well as from Reading and Philadelpliia, including the mem- 
bers of Dr. Wetherill's family, all of whom joined in the ball given 
on the lawn in front of the mansion after adjournment from the 
table. These delightful ceremonies were enjoyed for nearly two 
hours. During the afternoon, the members were entertained by the 
ladies in the parlors with cake and wine. Late in the afternoon 
the Corps gave an exhibition drill, after which they returned to 
the city. 

The general firing of the Corps elicited the praise and commen- 
dation of a large company of Military gentlemen who pronounced 
it equal to anything that they had ever witnessed. The Fencibles 
numbered 53 muskets, and from their accuracy of movement and 
steadiness in drill reflected credit alike upon their officers and 
themselves. The whole day passed without the occurrence of a 
single incident to mar its pleasures or festivities. 

July 4th. the usual parade of the Corps took place early in the 
day. The Aveather was hot and sultry. On the 5th, the Company 
assembled at the Armory of the Washington Blues, who met in 
the same building, in full uniform, for the purpose of receiving 
a very beautiful and massive gold medal, brought from California 
by one of its old members, Priv. Jacob Wray,* who was on a short 
visit to his native city, and to be presented by him as a mark of 
his remembrance and esteem. 

• See Wray's Medal page 188. 



1854 PRESENTATION— PRIVATE M'RAY 



101 



Captain Page on receiving the medal took occasion to express 
the sincere gratification he experienced at this proof on the part 
of Mr. Wray, that although he had retired from the ranks he had 
neither forgotten nor abandoned his comrades or Corps, that such 
an evidence of the true soldier's heart was one of the things to 
love in a Military organization. 

The presentation took place in the room of the Washington 
Blues, in the presence of many officers and citizens. Among thera 
being Generals Patterson and Small; Colonel Abercrombie, U. S. 
A., Cols. J. R. Snowden, Hesser, Rodgers, and Weaver; Major 
Yeager; Captains Josline, Eckendorff ; Lieutenant Price, 1st Troop; 
James Robb, of New Orleans; John Miller, and J. Hutchison, Esq'. 
At the conclusion of the ceremony the party, numbering about 
100 persons, proceeded to the room of the Fencibles, where a re- 
past was prepared for them, and all remained for several hours; 
speeches were made and some fine music was given by gentlemen 
amateurs. After doing full justice to the cakes, ices and wines the 
party broke up at a late hour. 

Of this occasion the PuUic Ledger said : 

The State Fencibles, Captain James Page, made a parade at 
their Armoy, in full uniform, for the purpose of receiving a rich 
and massive gold medal, presented to the Company by Mr. Jacob 
Wray, one of the members who has recently returned from Cali- 
fornia. The Company paraded over fifty members, and there were 
nearly the same number of invited guests, among whom were Maj. 
Gen. Patterson, General Small, Colonel Weaver, Major Yeager, Mr. 
Robb, of New Orleans, and other distinguished gentlemen. The 
presentation took place in the Armory of the Washington Blues, 
and elicited eloquent and appropriate speeches from the doner 
and Captain Page, after which the Company with their guests 
adjourned to the Armory of the Fencibles, where they partook of 
a very sumptuous entertainment. Toasts were given, speeches 
made, songs were sung, which contributed greatly to the delight 
of the Company, and rendered the occasion one of the most inter- 
esting military reunions participated in for a long time. 

It may be interesting to know that during Wray's connection 
with the Fencibles he was noted as being of a quiet and retiring 
disposition very plain in his appearance and very regular in at- 
tendance. At the breaking out of the gold fever, by the discovery 
in California, he quietly left for the land of promise, and his ex- 
istence nearly forgotten by his old comrades ; but in his hardships 



102 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1854 

and toils in the wilds of California he never forgot them, for the 
first treasure he delved from the virgin soil, the gold he placed in 
a small bag as a memento to his old comrades, exemplifying the old 
adage, "Once a Fencible — always a Fencible." His health be- 
coming impaired by his hardships, he returned to San Francisco, 
where he amassed a fortune. Previous to his visit to his birth- 
place he had his little bag of gold made into a medal. On one side 
is a suitable inscription, on the other the Coat of Arms of Cali- 
fornia, richly chased with the word "Eureka." Mr. Wray became 
a highly respected citizen of San Francisco, and in 1895 the Mayor 
of that city notified the Fencibles of his death. 

On August 21st, an election was held for officers of the Corps, 
and the followng were elected: Capt.. James Page; 1st Lieut., 
Alfred P. Hesser: 2nd Lieut., Thomas H. Marston.* 

The Company assembled at the Armory in full uniform on Sep- 
tember 4th, for the purpose of receiving the City Blues of Pater- 
son, New Jersey. After escorting them over a short route they 
were taken to the Armory, where the Corps had a collation spread 
for them. All sat down and spent a pleasant hour, after 
which they were escorted to their quarters and in the evening they 
were taken to the theatre. On the 5th, accompanied by a number 
of the Fencibles, they were taken to places of interest in the city, 
and were entertained at several hotels. On the morning of the 6th, 
the Company escorted them to the depot on their return home. 

The Corps assembled at the Armory for their Fall target firing 
on October 31st, and proceeded to the Diamond Cottage at Cam- 
den, N. J. After the firing the judges, Dr. Wetherill, John Miller, 
and S. D. Anderson, awarded the prizes. After partaking of a col- 
lation the Corps recrossed the river and landed at Kensington, 
and from there marched to the Armory. 

Of this occasion a newspaper said : 

Philadelphia, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 1854. 
Yesterday morning the State Fencibles paraded, under command 
of Lieutenant Hesser, for the purpose of target firing, at Diamond 
Cottage, Camden, N. J. Dr. William Wetherill, John Miller, S. 
D. Anderson, John Page, Lieutenant Gosline and Mr. Speering offi- 
ciated as judges. The report of the judges awarded the prizes 
to the following named gentlemen: 1st prize, the "Page Medal," 
to Private Vanhook; 2d prize, the "Wray Medal," to Private 
Upton; 3d prize, the "Company Medal," to Sergeant Vallee; 4th 

* See medals page 188. 



1854 SUBSCRIPTION BALL— RESOLUTIONS 103 

prize, the "Leans Medal," to Private Packer; 6th prize, tlie 
"Brazier Medal," to Private Williams. A sumptuous enter- 
tainment was provided for the occasion, after which, a silver 
Maltese Cross, inscribed "State Fencibles, to the best Single 
Shot," presented by Private Leans, was fired for and won by 
Private Vanhook. The two best shots were Mr. William Vanhook 
and Mr. Richard Wilson, the latter, one inch from the center, and 
the former, about a 32nd part of an inch less. Col. James Page, 
Captain of the Fencibles, was present, but did not take part in 
the parade, in consequence of a recent attack of lumbago. It 
was a source of much regret to him, as it was one of the few 
parades of the Company he had not participated in during his 
connection with it, now upwards of forty years. Mr. James 
Mullin, the next oldest member of the Fencibles, was present in 
the ranks. He has been an active member thirty-three years, and 
during that period has attended all the parades but two. He is 
about to leave his old associates, and remove into a neighbor- 
ing State. The State Fencibles numbered 42 muskets, and made 
a handsome appearance. 

On November 28th, a ball was held at Musical Fund Hall. 

Wetherill House, George Street above Sixth. 

December 16th, 1854. 

At a special meeting of the Corps of "National Guards," held 
this evening, to take action in relation to the late disaster and the 
general affairs of the Corps, a committee of seven were ap- 
pointed to draft suitable resolutions, who, after retiring, re- 
ported the following, which were unanimously adopted: 

Whereas, By the late disastrous conflagration at Fifth and 
Chestnuts Streets, among other calamities our Corps has been de- 
prived of their Armory and all its contents, and. 

Whereas, The following named Corps to wit, the "Washing- 
ton Grays. ' ' Lieutenant T. P. Parry, commanding ; ' ' Philadel- 
phia Grays," Captain Findlay; "State Fencibles," Captain 
Page ; ' ' Washington Blues, ' ' Lieutenant o. Hegar, command- 
ing; "Independent Grays," Captain Bruceland; " Cadwalader 
Grays," Captain Scott; and "Pulaski Guards," through their 
late Captain, E. J. Hincken; have expressed their sincere re- 
gret and deepest sympathy for our misfortunes^ and in the kind- 
est manner offered us the unlimited use of their respective Arm- 
ories, together with their arms, accoutrements, &c. ; also, the 
Philadelphia Band, No. 1, Henry Beck, Leader, who in like manner 
tendered the use of their room for meeting purposes; therefore, 
be it 

Eesolved, That we highly appreciate the kind and generous im- 
pulses which actuated the dift'erent bodies above named, in so j 



104 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1855 

promptly expressing their synipathy, and offering to place their 
property at our disposal; but we are deprived of the pleasure 
of accepting their various kind offers, having already engaged a 
room temporarily for the transaction of the business of the Corps. 

Resolved, That the sincere and heartfelt thanks of this Corps 
are due, and are hereby gratefully tendered to the various bodies 
above named, for their prompt and generous action in our behalf. 

Besolved, That Captain Lyle transmit a copy of the above pre- 
amble and resolutions to each of the bodies above named, and 
that the Secretary be also instructed to publish the same. 

Extract from the minutes. 

Attest: K. Jewell, 

Secretary. 

In the January meeting of 1855, the Company adopted a new 
dress uniform, having used the fatigue uniform for all parades for 
three years past. The style of coat was double breasted and staff- 
buttoned, black pants with buff stripe, lynx skin shako, white belts, 
belt plate with profile of Captain Page, black epaulettes with metal 
scales and one row of gold buttons. 

Armory State Fencibles. 

February 20th, 1855. 
Dear Sir: 

Your attention is respectfully called to the following resolu- 
tion passed by the Uniform Committee at their last stated 
meeting. 

Besolved, That each and every member of the Corps shall pay 
to Sergeant Martin Leans, Treasurer of the Uniform Committee, 
the sum of six dollars on or before the 20th day of March, 1855, 
on account of the alteration in uniform. 

The undersigned, on behalf of the committee, earnestly re- 
quest the co-operation of the members in this matter, and will 
be in attendance to receive money and contributing members every 
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings. 

No order will be given for any member's uniform who shall fail 
to comply with the above resolution. 

Your Ob't Serv'ts, 

i!\ Vallee, 
"W. Morris, Chairman, 

Secretary. 

On March 10th, occurred the death of Thomas C. Koekhill, Esq., 
formerly Lieutenant of the Fencibles, in the 65th year of hi.s age. 
He was noted for his discipline as a soldier and having as a man 
enjoyed to his last day the universal respect and confidence of his 
fellow-citizens. 



1855 NEWSPAPER CRITICISMS 10;5 

In 1855, a communication was addressed to the Military Editor 
of the Sundarj Mercury: 

Sir: — In the published proceedings of the recent dinner given 
by the "old members" of the State Fencibles to the present 
gentlemanly commander of the Corps, Captain James Page, it is 
stated that the State Fencibles and the First City Trooj) wore 
the only two surviving companies that were on duty among the 
troops composing General Cadwalader's Brigade, at Camp Du 
Pont, in 1814. I have always been under the impression that the 
Fencibles disbanded at some period between 1818 and 1821, and 
were afterwards re-organized. Can you inform me if such was 
the fact, and whether the present First City Troop is the same 
company which went to Mexico in 1847, under the command of 
Captain John Butler? 

Ordnance. 

In reply the Editor said: 

We cannot answer positively the inquiries of our correspondent 
in regard to the Fencibles, not being a member of the Corps, nor 
having access to their records. All that we know in regard to the 
matter is, that some fifteen or eighteen years ago, there was a 
dispute between the State Fencibles and the Washington Blues 
as to which was the oldest Company, and consequently entitled 
to the right of the Infantry Regiment. The Blues were organ- 
ized in August, 1817, and contended that the Fencibles although 
organized prior to that date, had disbanded about the time men- 
tioned by our correspondent, and their arms returned to the State. 
The Fencibles, we believe, in defense, admitted that for a year 
or two, the Company, being very feeble, did not parade, but 
that the officers held their commissions, which preserved the Com- 
pany organization. The matter was before the Board of Officers 
of the Regiment, and committee after committee were appointed, 
who failed to investigate the subject, and now nearly all the 
witnesses who knew anything of the alleged disbanding have 
"gone to their long homes." The Fencibles, however, conceded 
so much to the claims of the Blues, that an arrangement was 
made by which each company took the right of the regiment 
by turns, when the Blues had the right, the Fencibles took the 
left, and vice versa. This continued for several years till the 
death of General Jackson, in ]845, when a military parade was 
ordered on that occasion. At this parade the Blues were entitled 
to the right of the regiment, according to the terms of the agree- 
ment, but Captain Page, who at that time was Collector of the 
Port, under President Polk; being desirous of having the right on 
this particular occasion, notified Colonel Murray, then in com- 
mand, that he would take the right on the day in question, in spite 



106 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1855 

of the understanding existing between the two companies. Col- 
onel Murray being a feeble old man, did not interfere to prevent 
it, and William C. Patterson, who then commanded the Blues, 
after protesting against the proceeding, halted his company at 
the left of the regiment, while the Fencibles occupied the right. 
Captain Patterson is a man of undoubted courage, but in this in- 
stance his submission to an act of wrong excited much comment. 
He defended Ms course by saying that no officer should disobey 
the orders of his superior and as Colonel Murray had tacitly 
sanctioned the act, he would not at that time oppose it. The diffi- 
culty was again brought before the Board of Officers, uut up to 
the present time no decision has been given, that we are aware of, 
and the Blues seem to have surrendered all their ancient claim* 
to the ' ' post of honor. ' ' Perhaps some of our ' ' old soldiers ' ' 
can enlighten our correspondent niore^ than we can do upon this 
subject. 

Armory State Fencibles. 

May 15, 1855. 
Orders No. 7. 

Company will parade for Target Firing on Tuesday, May 22d, 
at 121/2 o'clock, provided with full rounds of blank cartridge 
and three of ball. 

An assessment of one dollar and fifty cents to defray expenses. 

By order of 

Capt. Page. 

Wm. Morris, F. S. 

The Spring target firing of the State Fencibles took place on 
Tuesday, the 22nd inst., at the Diamond Cottage, Camden, N. J.. 
The judges were Brigade Inspector Yeager; Colonels Fitzgerald 
and Anderson and Captain Gosline, of the Washington Blues. The 
exercises of the day were under the immediate direction of First 
Lieut. Francis Vallee, recently commissioned, and were highly 
creditable to him. After the firing the medals were awarded as 
follows : 

Washington Medal, Priv. E. E. Packer. Jackson Medal, Q. M. 
A. Fisher. Lorde Medal, Priv. J. Briggs. Pearl Medal, Priv. J, 
Aiken. Brazier Medal, Priv. W. F. Vanhook. Easton Musket, 
Priv. C. Thompson. Elsegood Musket, Corporal Seitzinger. 

A beautiful Military breast pin, and a gold pencil case, pre 
sented by Lieutenant Leans, to the first and second best single 
shots, were won by Sergt. David Stretch and Priv. J. Aiken. After 
the prizes were awarded by the judges, they partook of a collation 

♦Question of Rank with the Washington Blues, Captain W. C. Patterson, first oc- 
curred June 9th, 1842. 



1855 ELECTION— DEATH OF CAPTAIN BIDDLE 107 

prepared by the committee, and then crossed the river to Ken sin y:- 
ton, and took up the line of march to the Armory, stoppint? at 
8th and Spring Garden for refreshments. This was the only 
parade made during the year, owing to the disposal of the fatigue 
uniform and the new uniforms not being ready until late in the 
year. 

In the early part of the year the resignation of Lieutenant 
Hesser was received, owing to his removal to Missouri.* Suitable 
testimonial was presented to him of their regard. Lieutenant Mars- 
ton also tendered his resignation for business reasons. Their suc- 
cssors were: — 1st Lieut., Frank Vallee; 2nd Lieut., Martin Leans. 

On the 21st of August, 1855, the Company was notified of the 
death of Clement C. Biddle,t the first Captain of the Corps. Suit- 
able resolutions were passed and spread upon the minutes. As it 
was the desire of the family that there should be no Military dem- 
onstration the members attended the services in citizens dress. 

Armory of the State FENCiBr,E.s. 

August 21, 1855. 

At a meeting of the Company held this evening, the follow- 
ing proceedings and resolutions were unanimously adopted : 

Whereas, This Compiiny has just received the sad intelligence 
of the death of Col. Clement C. Biddle, one of its original found- 
ers, and first Captain ; therefore, 

Sesolved, That in the death of Col. Biddle the community has 
lost an estimable and useful citizen, one whose whole life was 
marked by the purest spirit of patriotism, and the faithful dis- 
charge of dutj' in every relation, public as well as private. 

Eesolved, That in view of his services at the head of the Com- 
pany and in command of the regiment to which it was attached, 
while at Camp Du Pont, in the fall and winter of 1814, during the 
war with Great Britain, we cannot help in our own behalf and 
that of his old comrades, many of whom have long since preceded 
him to the tomb, bearing grateful testimony to his devotion as a 
patriot, his urbanity as a gentleman and his carriage and skill 
as a soldier and officer. 

Eesolved, That we sincerely sympathize with his afflicted family 
in their trying bereavement, but are consoled by the reflection 
that he has been called away "full of years and full of honors" 
to a brighter and better state of existence. 

John W. Davis, 
Ass't Sec'y State Fencibles. 

t Life of Clement C. Biddle. See Appendix. 

♦October 4, 1862, Lieut. A. P. Hesser, formerly First Lieutenant of the Corps, and 
brother to the Colonel, was killed at New Bloomfield, Mississippi. He was born Sep- 
tember 11, 1819. 



108 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1856 

In the early part of the year 1856, the following communication 
was received: 

Cincinnati, January 22, 1856. 

Dear Sir: 

Since the despatch of our invitations in behalf of the "River 
Guards" and of the Citizens of Cincinnati; for yourself and 
Corps to participate with us in a grand National Union Cele- 
bration of Washington's Birthday, we have not had the pleasure 
of hearing from you. 

Favorable responses have been received by our Civic and Mili- 
tary Committee from a large number of prominent Statesmen, 
Civilians, and Soldiers, and we rely upon our festivities being 
partaken of by noted Military Companies of St. Louis, Louisville, 
Nashville, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburg, New York, 
Boston, Baltimore, Richmond, Wheeling, and we trust that Phila- 
delphia may be numbered in our list and represented by its 
Veteran Corps, the State Fencibles. 

We know that it is a busy season with you, and that many of 
your men being engaged in trade will have to make a sacrifice to 
come, but we believe the benefit will outweigh any inconvenience 
they may suffer. 

They will meet here Commercial Gentlemen from all parts of 
the Great West, there is a growing community of interests be- 
tween Philadelphia and Cincinnati and the occasion itself is para- 
mount to all other considerations. In short my dear sir, we cannot 
excuse you, so make up your minds to come and let us know how 
many men of your command we shall have the pleasure of quar- 
tering. Liberal arrangements can be made with the railroads, 
and the time occupied need not be long. It takes less than thirty 
hours to come from Philadelphia here. Hoping to have the honor 
of an early and favorable reply I remain. 

Very truly and cordially, 

E. P. Jones, 

To Colonel James Page. Secretary. 

On May 19th, 1856, the Corps made its first parade in its new 
dress uniform and proceeded to the Diamond Cottage for target 
firing. The judges were Capt. John Gosline, of the Washington 
Blues; Sergeant Andrews of the Washington Grays; and Joseph 
Murphy, Esq. After partaking of a collation they recrossed the 
river and made a short parade before returning to the Armory. 

On June 2nd, the Corps paraded with the Brigade for the yearly 
inspection by Brigade Inspector Yeager. The Regiment formed at 
Broad and Chestnut, and marched to the ground north of Fair- 
mount Basin. After the inspection, they were reviewed by Gen. 



1856 EESOLUTTONS— LAYING CORNER STONE 109 

George Cadwalader, and after marching into the city they were 

dismissed. 

Armory National Guards. 

Pini,ADEi,PHiA, Septenibor 1<5, 1856. 
Col. James Page, 

Dear Sir: — At an adjourned State Meeting of the Company held 
this evening, Captain Lyle presiding, the following resolution was 
unanimously adopted : 

Besolved, That the Command of the Parade on the occasion of 
the laying of the Corner Stone of the Armory of the Company on the 
17th inst. be tendered to Col. James Page, being as he is the 
senior commissioned officer in the State, if not in the United 
States; and that in the event of the absence of Gen. Cadwalader 
that he be invited to be present and preside. 

Yours truly, 
A, J. Sellers, 
Sect'y of N. G. 
Layjng of the Corner Stone op the National Guard's 

Armory. 
The Sun, September, 1856. 

Prominent among the incidents of yesterday was the beautiful 
ceremony of laying a corner stone at what is to be a splendid 
Armory for the National Guards. The new building will be 
erected on Race Street, between Fifth and Sixth Streets, and will 
be not only an ornament to this section of the city but will fill 
up a desideratum that has long been needed in the neighborhood. 

After the orators had concluded, the Band played an air, when 
Colonel Page commanded the attention, and proceeded to de- 
posit the following documents in a tin box, upon the top of which 
were the letters N. G. : — 

A copy of the charter of the National Guards, a copy of the 
Constitution from the organization to date; the roll and certificate 
of membership ; rolls of the Scott Legion ; historical collection 
from the archives of the First Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry, 
State Fencibles, Washington Blues, Independent Grays, Inde- 
pendent Guards, PhOadelphia Cavalry, Field and Staff officers 
1st Regiment Infantry, Ist Brigade, 1st Division, P. V.; Artillery 
Corps Washington Grays; Cadwalader Grays; General and Di- 
vision Staff 1st Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Division; Pennsylvania 
Cornet Band; names of companies participating in the parade; 
file of the National Guard, newspaper published at Camp Mc- 
Clellan, July, 1856; San Francisco Fireman's and Military 
Jmirnal, of August 16, 1856 ; name of the building, and by whom 
erected, with names of architects, superintendents, papers of the 
day, &c. 

Upon the box being placed in the cavity of the stone, the mili- 
tary presented arms, the band played a solemn air, after which 
they moved off to their respective Armories. 



110 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1856 

On November 20th, Thanksgiving Day, the Corps paraded with 
the ]st Regiment. The appearance and movements were very- 
creditable. 

On December 2nd, John Leake presented the Corps with a pic- 
ture of the Captain in a gold locket. 

The first parade recorded for 1857 was in March, when the Corps 
paraded with the 1st Brigade, to receive and escort the remains of 
Elisha Kent Kane, U. S. N., the Arctic Explorer,* to their last 
resting place at Laurel Hill. He died in Havana, where he had 
gone to benefit his health, after returning home from the Polar 
Regions, with a shattered constitution, caused by hardship and 
exposure in those frigid climes, which resulted in closing his earthly 
career. 

On April 21st, John Miller, Esq., an old member of the Corps, 
was elected 1st Lieutenant, to succeed Francis Vallee, resigned. In 
June the annual inspection took place, in the afternoon, in Inde- 
pendence Square. The Fencibles had two commissioned officers 
and 32 non-commissioned officers and privates, and while they were 
not present in their fuU strength, they were highly complimented 
for discipline and appearance by the inspector. On June 16th, 
the Company paraded with the Regiment to take part in the dedi- 
cation of the splendid Armory of the Infantry Corps of National 
Guards, on Race Street below Sixth. The Regiment under the 
command of Col. Wm. D. Lewis made a fine appearance, notwith- 
standing the unpleasant state of the weather. The oration on this 
occasion was delivered by Col. John W. Forney. 

On June the 29th, the Corps assembled in the afternoon in Sum- 
mer uniform to proceed to the Diamond Cottage for target practice. 
The weather was very unfavorable but it did not deter them from 
parading in their full strength, and the firing was excellent At 
this firing a leather medal was awarded to the worst shot on the 
board which happened to be the maker and doner of the medal, 
and this created much merriment. After the presentation of the 
medals the Corps recrossed the river to Kensington, and marched 
to the Armory. In the evening by invitation they visited Drew's 
National Theatre. 

On May 17th, 1858, in compliance with orders from the Brigade 
Inspector, Maj. David P. Weaver; the Corps paraded for inspection 
with the 1st Brigade. The organizations forming this Brigade in 

•The United States Grinnell Expedition. 



1858 FERDINAND LOPEZ— ORDERS ]1] 

those days were the 1st Troop, Philadelphia City Cavalry; Artillery 
Battalion parading as Infantry; Washington Grays; Philadelphia 
Grays; Cadwalader Grays; West Philadelphia Grays; First Regi- 
ment; State Fencibles; Washington Blues; City Fencibles; Na- 
tional Grays; National Guards (parading as a Battalion); Inde- 
pendent Grays ; Continental Guard ; Guard Lafayette ; Zouaves du 
Afric; Philadelphia Light Guard; all parading in their distinctive 
uniforms, and made a very odd display. The Brigade was formed 
on South Broad Street below Federal, after being reviewed by 
Gen. George Cadwalader, the usual parade was made, after which 
they were dismissed. 

On May 25th, an election was held for a Second Lieutenant 
that had been vacant for some time by the resignation of Lieut. 
Martin Leans, and Ferdinand Lopez was elected. He was a Cuban 
by birth, but a citizen of the United States. He came from a fam- 
ily of Cuban Patriots, and served in the 82nd Pa. Regiment 
during the Civil War. After the war he returned to Cuba and 
took sides with the Patriots in the ten-year war. During the sev- 
enties he paid a visit to the Company and on his return to Cuba 
was captured by the Spaniards and garroted. He was a genial 
gentleman and took great interest in Military tactics. 

On May 28th, in accordance with an order issued by General 
Cadwalader, the Corps paraded with the First Division to act as 
funeral escort to the remains of Gen. Percifer F. Smith, U. S. A., 
the Corps paraded in Summer uniform with two officers and 36 
privates. The remains were buried in Laurel Hill Cemetery. 

On June 3rd, the Company and invited guests were entertained 
at the Armory in the evening by Lieutenant Lopez for the pur- 
pose of introducing himself to the officers and members of the 
Corps. Among those present were Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Maj. R. E. 
Patterson, Dr. Wm. Wetherill, and many other friends. The Com- 
pany adjourned after mid-night having spent a very pleasant 
evening. 

The Company having received a pressing invitation from Dr. 
Wetherill to again visit his farm at Fatland, accepted the invita- 
tion and appointed a committee to make all necessary arrangements 
for the occasion, June 15th being decided upon. 

The following is a clipping from the Public Ledger: 

The First Company State Fencibles, Captain James Page, 
made an excursion to "Fatland," the charming estate of Dr. 



112 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1858 

Wm. Wetherill in Montgomery County, yesterday for target prac- 
tice. The Fencibles have long been esteemed a splendid body 
of citizen soldiery, and as they paraded in full strength accom- 
panied by Beck's admirable band presented a truly martial ap- 
pearance. They proceeded by the Reading R. R. and accom- 
panied by a large number of friends spent the day in rare en- 
joyment. Gen. John D. Miles, Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Major Gen. 
Robert Patterson, and Dr. Wetherill were appointed judges of 
the firing and awarded the prizes, among the invited guests were 
Gen. Wm, D. Riley, Col. John R. Murphy, Capt. John Gosline, 
Capt. Cromley, Capt. Vallee, Surgeons Clark and Mitchell, Col. 
S. J. Reed, Q. M. Sergt. Cooper, Wm. V. McGrath, Esq.; Col. 
James Campbell, Col. Deal, and many others. The hospitalities 
of the occasion were dispensed by the Doctor in magnificent 
style, and in his usual happy manner endeavoring to make every- 
one present, happy; and when the time of departure arrived many 
good wishes were left behind for our entertainer and his family. 
on this occasion the Corps paraded 3 Officers and 39 enlisted 
men. 

The Mercury, Sunday. June 20tli, 1858, said: 

On Tuesday last, the State Fencibles, numbering about 39 
muskets, under Captain James Page, made an excursion by way 
of the Reading Railroad, to Port Kennedy, a few miles above 
Norristown, from whence they were conveyed in a swift sailing 
craft, "on the raging canal," to the country seat of Dr. Wm. 
Wetherill. called "Fatland," in Montgomery County. On arriv- 
ing at the edge of the woods adjoining the mansion, the company 
was halted, and together with the guests and friends who par- 
ticipated in the excursion, were welcomed to the place by the 
propi'ietor, in a neat speech, in which he referred to various inci- 
dents connected with our Revolutionary struggle, which the scene 
was calculated to inspire, being within a few hundred yards of 
Valley Forge, where Washington passed the memorable winters 
of 1777 and 1778. 

An interesting affair took place on the ground between the 
Captain and James MuUin, one of the privates. Captain Page sa- 
luted him as being an older man, but a younger soldier than he 
was. The Captain then acknowledged to being 64 years of ago 
44 of which had been spent with the Fencibles, and he declared 
that it had been the most agreeable of any public association 
of his life time, and he hoped to live long enough to complete the 
half century with them. James MuUin said he was 67 years of 
age, and had been connected with the Fencibles for 35 years, 
during all of which time he had been a full private, never having 
held an office. Truly he deserves some testimonial to reward him 
for his faithfulness and constancy. 



i L-. 'J^ :.. ^H^ M\. >»^> - > ' • J^ „.:>J 




fi' ^Lr ir 'in: o. P F^-i^i :n 



THK HIDDLE .ME.MOPJAL WINDOW, AK.MORV— STATE FEXCIBLES. 



1858 PARADES— FUNERAL— LETTER 113 

On Sunday, July 4th. the Corps was invited by the Rev. E. W. 
Hutter to attend divine service at his church on New Street. The 
Corps assembled in the morning and marched to the church where 
they listened to an eloquent and patriotic sermon. On this occa- 
sion the Company paraded in Summer uniform and were in good 
strength. 

On July 11th, the Corps paraded in the morning with the Regi- 
ment for the purpose of rendering the last honors at the funeral 
of its Paymaster "White, who was accidentally drowned at League 
Island. His remains were interred in Monument Cemetery. The 
day was exceedingly hot and oppressive, and on the line of march 
many men were overcome with the heaii, nearly half of the 
Regiment were disabled. By the extraordinary good judgment of 
liieut. John Miller, who was in command of the Corps, prohibit- 
ing water being used during the march, the Fencibles did not lose 
a single man. After reaching the cemetery and a short rest, water 
was introduced and every man was refreshed. The Regiment be- 
ing dismissed in the cemetery the Company was marched to a, 
hostelry where refreshments and lunch were served, after which 
they returned to the Armory in as good shape as when they left 
earlier in the day. 

Again on August 24th, the Company paraded in the afternoon 
for the purpose of burying with Military Honors one of its old 
members, George R. Mercer, who was interred in the graveyard 
on Pine Street above Fourth. The volleys on this occasion could 
not be excelled. A few days after the funeral the following letter 
was received from the widow of the deceased: 

To Captain James Page: 

The nobleness and kind hearts with which yourself and Com- 
pany hastened to pay the last tribute to one who in the past was 
your companion and who will ever be remembered and cherished 
by the widow and family of the deceased. Accept the heartfelt 
thanks of those whom you have befriended, particularly the bosom 
companion of him who is no more, and through the chaos of hu- 
man life, when clouds of adversity are cast around you, may 
your men find warm friends clustering around them with a helping 
hand to soothe the pangs of sorrow and welcome the joys of 
everlasting life. 

Yours with respect, 

Mary C. Merceb. 

8 



114 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1858 

Tn compliance with orders issued on September 1st by Maj. Gen. 
Robert Patterson at the request of the city authorities, the Corps 
paraded with the Division, being a part of the celebration of the 
successful laying of the Atlantic telegraph cable connecting Europe 
and America by electricity. 

On the evening of September 7th, the Fencibles were honored 
with a visit from Mr. Samuel Grice, who was a member of the 
Company at the time of its formation, and who marched in its 
ranks in the U. S. service in 1814. He has resided in Richmond, 
Va., for a number of years and was paying his last respects to his 
native city. The members gave him a royal welcome, and a very 
pleasant evening was passed. 

On October 4th, the Corps paraded in the afternoon under the 
command of Captain Page to the Diamond Cottage, for the semi- 
annual target firing. They numbered 44 muskets and were ac- 
companied by Beck's Philadelphia Band. The judges for the oc- 
casion were Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Col. S. D. Anderson, John Brod- 
head, Esq., Charles Wilson, Esq., and Edward Headly, Esq. They 
returned to the city at 5 o'clock, bringing with them the target 
which exhibited creditable signs of their skill as marksmen. 

The Corps had intended to have an entertainment in the Arm- 
ory on November 29th, but learning that the Washington Artiller- 
ists of Pottsville, old friends of the Corps, would visit this City on 
November 2nd, as guests of the Scott Legion (Veterans of the 
Mexican War), accordingly both organizations were invited to be 
present. A sumptuous entertainment was spread in the Armory, 
and the guests were welcomed by Captain Page, and an eloquent 
reply was made by the Plon. J. H. Campbell. After spending a 
pleasant hour discussing "Fencible Punch," they took their de- 
parture, after which the Fencibles seated themselves around the 
festive board and enjoyed themselves until a late hour. 

On November 18th, Thanksgiving Day, the Corps made a street 
parade. There were 3 officers and 50 men in line. On reaching 
8th and Spring Garden Streets the Company was entertained by 
Mr. Sheldrake at his hotel, also on the return march they stopped, 
by invitation, at the hotel of Mr. Kohl at 12th and Poplar Streets, 
and was sumptuously entertained by him. Upon returning to the 
Armory an invitation there awaited them from Mr. Black, pro- 
prietor of the Lamb Tavern, Delaware County, to spend the even- 
ing. The invitation was respectfully declined by the Captain. 



1859 ORGANIZATION OF DRUM CORPS— PARADE n,3 

In the early part of 1859, the Corps organized a drum corps of 
]2 boys about 16 years of age, who were being instructed with re- 
markable success by Drum IMajor Baneker, an old veteran and mu- 
sician. Their uniform was scarlet jacket, blue pants and cap, 
white belt. This band was formed by the Board of Non-Commis- 
sioned Officers who were organized as a committee to promote in- 
terest in the Corps in all matters pertaining to appearance, drill, 
and attendance in which they were very successful. 

An invitation having been received from the Washington Ar- 
tillerists of Pottsville to attend their reception on February 22nd, 
a number of the Corps were preparing to participate, and looked 
forward to a xery enjoyable time, but were disappointed by Col. 
\Vm. D. Lewis issuing orders for a Regimental Parade on that after- 
noon. The Company paraded on this occasion 3 officers and 53 
muskets. 

At this time the Corps had increased its membership to such 
an extent that it was deemed necessary to elect a 3rd and 4th 
Lieutenant, accordingly Jacob J. Seitzinger was elected 3rd, and 
John Melloy, an old and honored member of the Corps, was elected 
4th Lieutenant. 

During this Spring the Corps was preparing to move its quarters 
to 505 Chestnut Street, which was being renovated for its occu- 
pancy; being more commodious than the former quarters. 

On May 23rd, in compliance with orders from the Brigade In- 
spector, Maj. David P. Weaver, the Corps paraded with the Regi- 
ment, and marched to South Broad Street below Federal, where it 
joined the Brigade and were inspected. After a review and parade 
they were dismissed. The Fencibles mustered 4 officers and 63 
muskets. 

June 14th, the Company enjoyed an excursion to the farm of 
Dr. Wetherill at Fatland, Montgomery County. The following 
is a newspaper account of the trip : 

The State Fencibles, Captain James Page, made their annual 
excursion to "Fatland," the beautiful country seat owned by 
Dr. Wetherill, in Montgomery County, 6 miles above Norris- 
town. They numbered 74 muskets and 5 Officers — Capt. James 
Page, 1st Lieut. John Miller, 2d Lieut. F. Lopez, 3d Lieut. J. 
Seitzinger, 4th Lieut. John Melloy, and an Honorary staff consist- 
ing of Q. M. .John Thornley, Commissary Wni. B. Hood, Sur- 
geon D. D. Clark, Ass't Surgeon F. S. Seitzinger, Paymaster B. 
Richardson. On this occasion they wore the dress uniform of the 



lis ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1859 

Corps with the regulation felt hat, which added much to the ap- 
pearance of the Corps on parade. The Corps was also accom- 
panied by a number of invited guests, among whom were Major 
Gen. Robert Patterson, Gen. Keim, of Reading, Brig. Gens. Cad- 
walader and Miller, Col. Wm. D. Lewis, and Staff Lieut. Col. 
Chas. Wilhelm, Major A. Newbold, and a number of Captains of 
Companies of the 1st Regiment. The party aiter a pleasant ride 
over the Reading R. R. to Port Kennedy, crossed the river on a 
barge procured for that pui-jjose by the generous host who met 
them on the opposite shore. 

The Company before partaking of a lunch were presented to 
Dr. Wetherill by Captain Page, and concluded by pressing each 
and all to freely partake 6f the good things provided for them. 
After which they commenced firing at the target, after the firing, 
the winners were presented with the medals by Col. Wm. D. 
Davis. 

The Company then marched to the mansion, where they sat 
down to a sumptuous dinner, at the conclusion of which toasts 
were given, and speeches were made by Gens. Patterson, Cad- 
walader, and others. Lieut. Col. Chas. Wilhelm offered the fol- 
lowing sentiment : — 

"The State Fencibles, the leading Company of the 1st Reg't., 
1st Brig., a Company remarkable for their brotherly feeling and 
military discipline, may those Companies who lack that feeling 
emulate their example, and then the 1st Regiment will ever 
stand first." 

Colonel Page responded in a very feeling manner. After giving 
3 cheers for Dr. Wetherill they adjourned from the table, and 
the members of the Company engaged in a dance on the lawn with 
the numerous ladies who were present. Among the pleasant inci- 
dents of the day was the presentation of a massive silver fruit dish 
to Dr. Wetherill by the State Fencibles upon whom the Doctor has 
lavished favors for several years past. The following inscription 
was engraved on the cover:— "To Dr. Wetherill, of Fatland, 
Montgomery Co., as a token of their gratitude for numerous acta 
of kindness and hospitality. ' ' 

The excursion altogether was of a most agreeable character 
and will doubtless be remembered by those participating. 

The following is a communication received announcing the re- 
election of Captain Page: 

Philadelphia, June 18th, 1859. 
Sir: 

I have the honor to inform you that an election held on the 
6th day of June, 1859. you were duly elected Captain of the 



1859 INDEPENDENCE DAY— VISIT TO NEW YORK II7 

State Fencibles, attiuhcd to the First Regiment Volunteer In- 
fantry of this Brigade. 

Very respectfully, 

H. B. Yeager, 
Brigade Inspector, First Brigade, First Division, P. M. 
To Captain James Page. 

June 20th, the Corps moved to its new Armory at 505 Chest- 
nut Street. 

On July 4th, the Corps celebrated Independence Day by making 
a parade at 6 o'clock in the morning, forming a Battalion of four 
companies commanded respectfully by Lieut. John Miller, Lieu- 
tenant Lopez, Lieutenant Seitzinger, and Lieut. John Melloy. 
Captain Page as Battalion Commander, with the Honorary staff. 
During the parade a halt was made, by request of "The James 
Page Library Association," where the Corps was entertained, after 
which they marched to the Armory and dismissed. The morning 
was intensely hot but they returned to the Armory in good con- 
dition. 

On August 29th, the Corps, with their friends, made an ex- 
cursion to New York City, via Amboy. Reaching Amboy by rail, 
they took the steamboat for New York and after a short ride up 
the North and East Eivers they returned to Amboy, and took the 
train for home, where they arrived early in the evening. The trip 
was very enjoyable and was financially successful. This was the 
first excursion of the kind made from Philadelphia. 

From a daily paper: 

On Monday last, the State Fencibles, Captain Page, made their 
grand excursion to New York, taking with them a company of 
about six hundred ladies and gentlemen, among the latter many 
officers and members of other military companies. They took the 
cars at Camden, for Amboy, where they embarked on the large 
and commodious steamboat John Potter, passing through Staten 
Island Sound, or the Kills, to New York Bay. The boat stopped 
at Pier No. 1, North River, to take in fresh water for the boilers, 
after which she passed up the North River as far as Weehawken, 
giving the passengers a view of the western front of New York, 
and in coming down, of Hoboken and Jersey City, the yacht 
squadron, &c. She then returned to the pier again for more 
water, which detained her for another half hour. The gangway 
plank was not put out, and none of th"e passengers were permitted 
to land, and no one to come on board. Two "smart" Jerseymen, 
however, who thought they could get a "free trip" to Philadel- 



118 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1859 

phia, jumped on board, but were instantly mulcted in $2.50 each, 
much to their discomfiture and the amusement of the excursion- 
ists. The pier was crowded with emigrant runners, police officers, 
loafers, et hac omiie genus, who cracked jokes with the Philadel- 
phians on board, which were replied to with spirit. The boat 
afterwards passed around into the East River, and up as far as 
the Navy Yard at Williamsburg, affording fine views of the east- 
ern part of New York City, Brooklyn, and the surrounding is- 
lands, after which she passed through the Narrows into the 
"open sea," around Staten Island to Amboy again. While pass- 
ing outside, the company indulged in the ' ' light fantastic, ' ' and 
were just in the height of it when they arrived at Amboy again, 
where the train was taken for Camden. Everything passed off 
most delightfully. The weather could not have been more charming, 
and nothing occurred to mar the pleasures of the day, except some 
trifling dissatisfaction about the dining arrangements. Where 
there are 600 persons to dine, and only about 115 or 120 can sit 
down at once, somebody must wait until the last. As all paid the 
same price, all thought they should be seated at the first table. 
This being impossible, there was some fault-finding in consequence 
but every reasonable person who saw how the matter stood, in- 
stead of grumbling, took the matter cooly and got in good humor. 
Everything that could be done for the comfort of the party was 
done by the Committee of Arrangements, who provided an abund- 
ance of edibles, of good quality, which were sold at fair prices, 
and a surplus brought back. The excursion was highly successful. 
If repeated at any time, it would be well to make arrangements 
to stop in New York, an hour or two, to gratify many who have 
never seen Gotliam. This would add greatly to its interest. 

On September 24th, the Captain received the following com- 
munication : 

Having understood that you propose having a uniform drill on 
the evening of the 26th, the Staff attached to your Command, 
desirous of manifesting their appreciation of the honorable posi- 
tions to which you have elevated them, and for that purpose they 
respectfully solicit the pleasure of your presence, and through 
you, Your Company, to a collation to be served in the room under 
the Armory on Tuesday evening at 9 o'clock. 

John Thornley, 
F. S. Seitzinger, 
B. Richardson, 
Wm. B. Hood, 
D. D. Clark. 

September 26th, according to orders a uniform drill took place 
in the evening, in the State House yard. There were present 5 



1859 CAMAC'S WOODS— STAFF MKDAL \-[f) 

officers and 63 muskets. After manoeuvering in Company and Bat- 
talion movements the Corps returned to the Armory, where they 
were honored by the presence of Generals Patterson, Riley, Cad- 
walader. Small, and many other IMilitary friends. All sat down 
to a sumptuous repast ordered by the Staff. During the evening 
the members of the Staff presented the Corps with a beautiful 
massive gold medal, having the miniature likeness of each member 
of the Staff, to be called the Staff Medal.* 

On October 17th, the Corps assembled at the Armory, and 
marched to Camac's Woodst in the upper part of the city for the 
Fall target practice. The Corps paraded as a Battalion of four 
companies; they mustered five officers. 

A singular incident occurred during the target firing of the 
State Fencibles. As Mr. Richardson, the Commissary, was pre- 
paring to fire, the hammer of the musket slipped, and the piece 
Avas discharged in the air. Another musket was then loaded and 
handed to Dr. Clark, the Surgeon, when just as he levelled for 
aim, the ball of the previously discharged piece fell directly in 
front of him, within some five or six inches of his face, it having 
completed its aerial voyage dni'ing the loading of the second 
musket.ff 

A newspaper clipping of this occasion reads as follows: 

We are sorry to have witnessed in one or two journals published 
in this city, a decided attempt to disparage this time-honored 
military company, so long commanded by that veteran chief and 
public spirited citizen. Colonel James Page. 

Taken collectively, we feel that no corps in the United States 
enrolls in their rank more perfect gentlemen, better drilled men, 
or more practical soldiers, than can be found concentrated in the 
State Fencibles. So great has been the desire to join their ranks 
that upon each meeting night numbers of our most respectable 
young men, full of vigor and ambition, present themselves for 
membership. 

A few weeks ago the "Fencibles" went to Camac's Woods for 
the purpose of target firing — and although but 66 men of the 76 
in the line fired — 117 balls pierced the target, making an average 
of 2% good shots per each man in 3 rounds. The firing was down 
hill, a far more difficult operation than directing the balls upward, 
or having the mark placed upon a level piece of ground. The 
North American, in mentioning the affair, called the exercises 

•See staff medal, page 188. 

tCamae's Woods were North of the present Berks Street and West of Tenth Street 

ttThis is an extract from the Minutes of that date. 



120 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1859 

a farce, and said what the company lacked in skill, it made up in 
jollification, thus intimating that the men " spreed it" rather 
liberally. Those who know that stern disciplinarian Colonel 
Page, are fully aware that he never has nor never will allow 
his men to act, when on duty, otherwise than as soldiers. 

The Sunday Mercury of this week, in an article which is not en- 
tirely unfriendly in tone towards the Fencibles, and which con- 
tained some sensible remarks in regard to the young men leaving 
fire companies, and studying military matters, conveys an idea 
that the great strength of the Fencibles is owing to the fact that 
the members of the Hibernia Engine, flock around the standard 
of a commander who is their President. Singular as it may ap- 
pear, but four members of the ' ' Hibernia ' ' belong to the Fenci- 
bles; and out of 128 members some ten fire companies are repre- 
sented, all of them more strongly than "Old No. 1." 

The Mercury men are at a loss to know who tho.se four gentle- 
men were too proud to enter the ranks as privates, upon 
last parade day. Although it would not puzzle a Philadelphia 
lawyer to make out what business they had there, their pres- 
ence appears to have set the military editor wool gathering, and, 
therefore, we will inform him that the State Fencibles, on Thurs- 
day last paraded as a Battalion, not as a company, and as a 
Battalion had a right to a staff, and that those gentlemen were 
not "supes, " but were officers, and, as such, were in their right 
place. The Editor is also wrong in supposing that those gentle- 
ment were too proud to enter the ranks as privates — for, upon 
the contrary, two of them, have to our personal knowledge, done 
active military duties in years gone by. 

We understand that the Fencibles will parade again as a Bat- 
talion on Thanksgiving Day ; and there is a rumor that they will 
be joined by the National Guards in a street display. We hope 
they will, for two such bodies of men armed, form a sight not 
often witnessed. 

Thanksgiving Day, November 24th, in compliance with orders 
from Col. Wm. D. Lewis the Corps paraded in the afternoon 
with the 1st Regiment, and was detailed to escort the Colors into 
line on the parade ground. The Corps mustered, on this occasion, 
4 officers and 78 muskets. 

December 2nd, the retired members of the Corps held a re- 
union and banquet at the Sansom Street Hall; -there were present 
several survivors of the Corps who served in 1814, and a number 
of prominent citizens and soldiers as invited guests. The hall 
was beautifully decorated and Beck's Band enlivened the Com- 
pany with some elegant selections. One of the features of the 
evening was the presentation of a splendid gold mounted sword 



1859 ANNIVEKSAEY OF RETURN FROM CAMP DU PONT 121 

to Captain Page. As a mark of their esteem as a gentleman and 
soldier, which was received by him with an eloquent speech. Many 
speeches were made and much good feeling was aroused among 
those present. They adjourned at a late hour. 

After the dinner and music, the following regular toasts were 
read and responded to : 

"Hon. Alexander Henry, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia; 
Our Distinguished Chief-Magistrate; whose father was a volunteer 
in the War of 1812, and served in the ranks of the Fencibles at 
Camp Du Pont." 

Mayor Henry in reply to the following toast said: 

Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen: 

1 know of no more appropriate manner of responding to the 
toast which has just been announced, than by expressing my ac- 
knoMletlgment of the kind feelings which have induced its per- 
sonal sentiments, and in Avhich it has been received, and by 
asking your indulgence whilst I briefly advert to its other al- 
lusions. 

The event which this festive occasion is designed to celebrate, 
can have for most of us, but the calm interest of historic truth, 
or at best, the warmer associations of diverse tradition. Yet, 
there are those around me who will recall its scenes with emotions 
which they only, who shared in its realities may fully compre- 
hend. 

DurJ^ng the last war with Great Britain the wanton outrage 
committed by the enemy upon the Federal Capitol, together with 
the repeated demonstrations of the hostile fleet that hovered 
around and within the Delaware Bay, naturally awakened intense 
solicitude for the safety of this city. With an alacrity which, 
thanks to an over-ruling Providence, no subsequent occasion has 
ever required, its citizens of all ages and of all conditions has- 
tened to enroll themselves for the common defense. The lawyer 
forsook his office, the physician gave up his practice, the mer- 
chant closed his ledger, the artisan abandoned his workshop, the 
student threw aside his books, and all with one impulse and ac- 
cord pressed forward to the camp, whilst the mother, the wife, 
and the maiden, confident in the valor of their protectors, gazed 
after them from cheerless homes wifh that anxious devotion that 
only woman's love can feel; and the man of God invoked upon 
their arms the favor and the succor which is of Him to stay or 
to bestow. 

In the months of August and September, 1814, thirteen volun- 
teer companies from this city assembled at Camp Bloomfield, in 
Kennett Square, but moved thence to Camp Du Pont, where as 
a portion of the Advanced Light Brigade, they remained until the 



122 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1859 

end of November, when all reasonable apprehensions of immedi- 
ate aggression having passed away they set out for their respec- 
tive homes. 

On Friday, the 2d of December, 1814, after three months of 
military service, during which the privations and severities of 
camp life were cheerfully undergone by those unused to hard- 
ships, and during which happily there had been no call to peril 
life upon the field of battle, the Advanced Light Brigade, under 
command of General Thomas Cadwalader, numbering thirty-five 
hundred volunteers, in well disciplined array, entered this city. 

This evening forty-five years ago, one joy pervaded Philadel- 
phia. There were few firesides that were not gladdened with the 
presence of a returned soldier. The tears of joy that a father's 
pride could not withhold, the devout thanks prompted by a mo- 
ther's love, welcomed back many a darling son, the fond embrace 
of the wife clasped the husband 's form as though no vicissitudes 
could part them again during life's journey, bright eyes of be- 
trothed and loved ones grew yet more bright as in the purity of 
affection they gazed upon those whom their maiden meditations 
had invested with all of heroism and manly worth ; brothers, 
sisters, friends, joined in the hearty gi'eetmg, and the old 
family servants, as they heaped fresh logs upon the fire of that 
winter night, shared in the household rejoicing. The fires upon 
those hearth-stones have long since gone out; and the soldiers, 
parents, wives, maidens, of December, 1814, where are they? 
How few are left to gaze in saddened reverie over the mounds 
which one after another have raised the church-yard sod, back to 
that eventful evening which we have met to commemorate. 

It is your appreciation, gentlemen, who, in former days, have 
with pride been numbered among the Fencibles, it is your ap- 
preciation of the honorable reputation of this Company, and of 
the active zeal and untiring devotion that for more than forty 
years have advanced its interests, which upon this occasion prompts 
the tribute of your admiration and esteem. 

Captain Page; former members of the Corps of State Fencibles, 
over which you have so long and efficiently held command, select 
this occasion for the manifestation of their regard, in the pres- 
entation of the most appropriate gift that can be offered to a 
soldier's acceptance. 

At least twice before comrades and friends, in befitting manner 
and with suitable mementoes, have testified to the admiration, 
which they entertain for your qualities as a soldier and your 
virtues as a citizen. 

In the name of its givers I present you with this sword, and 
with it the assurance of the fervent wishes and heartfelt prayers 
of those by whom it is bestowed, that the yet unbowed head and 



1859 BEFORE THE WAR— LETTER— RIOSOLUTIONS 123 

stahvart form of their old ("oniniaiidor may for long years to 
come, in the ripeness of vigor, be sjjared to the falling which he 
adorns and to the friends by whom he is beloved. 

Captain Page accepted the present in his usual happy style. 

During the latter part of the year there was much excitement ex- 
isting owing to the great difference of opinions in the Northern 
and Southern States regarding the extension of slavery in the new 
territories of the West. Treasonable utterances were freely made, 
and meetings were being held all over the country to effect some- 
thing toward a reconciliation to avert the gathering storm; but 
nothing seemed to avail and both sections were determined ; seces- 
sion was freely threatened in the Southern States, which did take 
place, on the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln over a year later, 
when the loyal people were compelled to witness rebellion and de- 
sertion from the tiag of their Country, for which their forefathers 
had fought, bled and died, and which they trailed in the dust, and 
the Country plunged into a civil war which cost thousands of lives 
and millions of treasure ; but thanks to God, our Hag passed through 
the fiery ordeal and now waves proudly over an undivided country. 

December 6th, the following communication was received by the 
Corps at its stated meeting showing the excitement of the public : 

Philadelphia, Dee. 6th. 
Col. James Page, 

State Fevcihles. 
Sib: 

In compliance with the wishes of the presiding officers of a 
Union mass-meeting to be held on Feb. 7th, we respectfully re- 
quest your company to join in the general celebration of the occa- 
sion by displaying its flag at your Armory on that day. 

Very respectfully, 

H. A. Stiles, 
Chairman of Arrangements. 

The request was unanimously agreed to, and the following reso- 
lution adopted : 

Besolvcd, That as the State Feneibies were prompt in 1814, to 
march to repel the invaders of their country, they will be equally 
ready at the call of the proper authority to put down treason, 
and uphold the union and constitution and the flag of the United 
States. ' ' 

This excitement continued until the inauguration of President 
Abraham Lincoln. When the Southern States began to secede 



124 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1860 

from the Union, an act that they had been preparing for with the 
assistance of high officials then at the head of the government, and 
were actively preparing for war. 

On March 8th, ]860, the Corps gave a grand ball at the Musical 
Fund Hall, for the purpose of receiving a beautiful Stand of 
Colors, to be presented by the ladies of Reading, Fatland and 
Philadelphia. A number of distinguished guests were present, and 
the ball room presented a magnificent sight. The Corps was hon- 
ored by the presence of Admiral Charles Stewart (Old Ironsides), 
and a large number of Naval officers. Early in the evening the 
Colors were presented by Judge Snyder, of Reading, and were re- 
ceived by Colonel Page in his usual eloquent manner. After this 
presentation Admiral Stewart presented Colonel Page with a cane 
made from the timber of the Old Ironsides. The Admiral and 
Colonel enjoyed a veiy close friendship. After the presentation 
the Corps divided into four companies and gave an exhibition Bat- 
talion drill and dress parade, which was executed with remarkable 
precision and was wildly applauded. After the drill, all guests 
present enjoyed the dancing until the early hours of the morning, 
Avhen they all retired well satisfied with the hospitality of the 
Fencibles. 

On May 14th, in compliance to orders from Brig. Ins. Maj. 
David P. Weaver, the Corps paraded in the afternoon for inspec- 
tion. After a review and parade they were dismissed. The Corps 
mustered 3 officers and 70 muskets. 

On June 23rd, the Corps paraded for target practice. Assem- 
bling at an early hour in the morning they marched to Arch Street 
wharf and embarked on the steamboat "Edwin Forrest" for Bris- 
tol. After the firing they sat down, with a number of invited 
guests, to a dinner where speeches were made by some of the guests, 
and were responded to by members of the Corps. After the 
medals were presented they adjourned and the members enjoyed 
athletic sports until the arrival of the boat when they departed 
for home. 

Armory State Fencibles, July 3d, 1860. 

At a Stated Meeting of the Company, held this evening the fol- 
lowing preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted : 

Whereas, The members of the Company have learned with sor- 
row of the decease of their late comrade, Thomas M. Eiehards, 
who, for nearly forty years, wore the uniform and marched in the 
ranks of the Company, being at all times and under all circum- 



1860 RESOLUTIONS— NOTICE— FUNERAL l-jf, 

stances, prompt to obey orders, and diligent in the discharge of 
all the duties of a soldier, and who, by his devotion to the in- 
terests of the Company, and kind deportmt^ht as a man, won our 
esteem, and wore it until death summoned him trom our midst; 
therefore be it 

Resolved, That, as the last sad tribute of respect to his memory 
we will as a body attend the interment of his remains, on Thurs- 
day next. 

Sesolved, That a copy of the above be transmitted to the fam- 
ily of the deceased. 

Attest: M. C. Geier, 

Assista7it Secretary. 
Orders. 

State Fencibles — The Company will parade on Thursday morn- 
ing at 8Y> o'clock, A. M., full uniform (white pants). 

By order of 
John Miller, 
Lieutenant Commanding. 

A newspaper notice was as follows : 

State Fencibles — Old Guard. 
The surviving members of the Corps of State Fencibles, who 
served at Camp Du Pont, and the Honorary and Contributing 
Members of the Corps, are requested to meet at the Armory of the 
Company, 505 Chestnut Street, at 914 o'clock, on Thursday morn- 
ing, 5th inst., to attend the funeral of their late fellow member, 
Thomas M. Richards. 

On July 5th, the Corps paraded to pay Military honors to their 
late member, Thomas M. Richards, who had served in the Corps for 
nearly 40 years, and by his devotion to the Corps had won the 
esteem of his comrades. 

Armory State Fencibles, July 20, 1860. 

At a special meeting of the Battalion held this evening, the 
death of Edward W. Killingsworth, formerly an active member 
of the Corps, was announced, when, on motion, it was unani- 
mously 

Eesolved, That the Battalion parade on Sunday, and perform 
the last Military honors over the grave of the deceased. 

Eesolved, That his old associates and companions in arms bear 
in affectionate remembrance the many generous and social quali- 
ties of their departed comrade, and will ever give his memory a 
place in their hearts. 

Eesolved, That we sincerely sympathize with the family and 
friends of the deceased in the loss which they have sustained. 

M. C. Grier, 
Assistant Secretary. 



126 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1860 

At a special meeting o f the members of the ' Old Guard, ' held at 
the Armory of the State Fencibles, on the evening of Friday, the 
20th inst., Maj. Benjamin I. Williams was called to the Chair, and 
Charles II. Masson appointed Secretary. 

The Chairman announced the death of Edward Killingsworth, 
and the following resolution was presented: 

Resolved, That his old comrades receive with emotions of deep 
sorrow and regret the intelligence of the demise of Edward 
Killingsworth, whose generous nature, social qualities, and kind 
disposition, endeared him not only to us, but to a large circle of 
acquaintances, and will make his loss severely felt. 

Besolved, That we will attend his funeral in a body, and per- 
form the last tribute of respect to his remains. 

Besolved, That we condole with his family and friends in this 
their sad bereavement. 

Benjamin Williams, 

Attest: Charles H. Masson, Chairman, 

Secretary. 

During this month the Corps paraded with the Division for the 
purpose of escorting the Japanese Embassy, who was to visit this 
City, in charge of Government Officers, who were escorting them 
on an official tour through the United States. 

Philadelphia, July 16, 1860. 
Col. James Page. 

My Bear Sir: — Permit me very affectionately to present you 
with a lithograph likeness of Major John Polhomus* (my mother's 
father) because, at the announcement of his death, in May, 1838, 
you very kindly volunteered the services of your Company to bury 
him with military honors. This proof of your love for that band 
of Patriots, now dead and gone, has never been forgotten. 

You T\ ill no doubt remember the occasion. , The ' ' State Fenci- 
bles" attended his funeral from his late residence, 9th Street be- 
low South, and proceeded to Ronaldson 's Cemetery, with full band 
of music and performed the last honors to a deceased soldier 
of Washington. 

Very truly yours, with great respect, 

C. L. Pascal. 

On August 31st, the Corps having received an invitation from 

Colonel Brodhead, President of the Camden and Atlantic R. R., 

to visit Atlantic City, a train was placed at their disposal. The 

Corps promptly accepted the kind offer and assembled at the Arm- 

*John Polhomus was commissioned Captain, U. S. A., by an order of Congress, 
Nov. 22, 1775. Promoted to Major at Valley Forge. 



1860 TARGET FIRING— THANKSGIVING DAY 127 

ory at 5 A. M. and marched to the ferry at the foot of Vine Street, 
aceompanied by Beck's Phihidclphia Band. After crossing the 
river they boarded the train and arrived at their destination at 9 
o'clock. Marching to the United States Hotel, they gave an exhibi- 
tion drill. After being dismissed they were invited to take a sail 
on the ocean. At two o'clock they sat down to dinner and at sun- 
down the Corps assembled for dress parade. After this ceremony, 
dancing was indulged in until eleven o'clock when they entrained 
for home. Quite a number of Military guests were present with the 
Corps, among whom were General Miles, Col. Wm. D. Davis. Col. 
John K. ]\Iurphy, Maj. A. Newbold. Major Delaney. ^lajor Harvey, 
Major Pugh, Captains Gosline, Cromley, Singer and Mitchell. Lieu- 
tenant Russell and many others. Many thanks were tendered the 
generous host, Jeremiah McKibbin, who was unceasing in his en- 
deavors to make their visit pleasant. 

On October 29th, the Corps paraded for target practice, pro- 
ceeding to the IMarket Street ferry they crossed to Camden, and 
marched to the Diamond Cottage. After the firing was finished 
they partook of refreshments. The prizes were then awarded by 
the judges and the Company formed and marched to the ferry and 
reerossed the river. After a short parade they returned to the 
Armory, where the committee had a fine collation spread. After 
spending a pleasant hour they departed for their homes. The 
Corps had on this occasion mustered 4 officers, 5 Staff and 60 
muskets. 

November 26th, Thanksgiving Day, the Corps paraded with the 
Regiment, and was out in its full strength making a splendid 
appearance. This was the last parade of the Fencibles prior to the 
Rebellion. The year closed amid great political excitement, and 
the outlook was gloomy for the peace of the nation. 

New York, August 21st, 1860, 
To Colonel Page. 

Dear Sir: — We beg to inform you in behalf of all present at 
a banquet offered this day by Company B, of the New York 
Lafayette Guards, to both of the French Companies of Phila- 
delphia, a toast was given in honor of Colonel Page, in remem- 
brance of the kind reception tendered by him to the Pioneer 
Company of the Lafayette Guards, .5oth Regiment, New York 
State Militia, when on a visit to Philadelphia in 1849. 



128 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1860 

In hopes that the small mark of our respect and esteem may be 
received with pleasure. We have the honor to remain, 
Very respectfully yours, 

E. Baudin, Capt. of Phila. Zouaves. 
E. G. EoussEL, Lt. of G. L. 
C. Pegingne, 

G. GiRARD, ) 

T. Tartte;,[ ^-G- Officers. 

Philadelphia, August 29, 1860. 
Gentlemen: — 

Your favor of the 21st inst. apprising me of the "Toast" 
complimentary of myself given at the banquet offered by Com- 
pany B, of New York, to the two French Companies of this city, 
has been just received. 

I sensibly feel and duly appreciate this mark of the esteem 
of the Assembled Company and shall ever gi-atefully cherish it. 
The visit of the Lafayette Guards in 1849, I well remember. 
Never was there such weather as we had to encounter, but the 
cordiality of the meeting and the fraternization of the Guards 
and the Fencibles were of so warm and enthusiastic a character, 
as to make us forget the incivility of the elements; and the rain, 
snow and slush were altogether unheeded. 

That was the ' ' Pioneer ' ' movement in the organization of the 
' ' Lafayette Guards, ' ' and the men now rallying under the name 
of the companion and friend of Washington, (vastly increased 
in numbers and discipline) are among the best and most approved 
of our Citizen Soldiery, and will be ever ready to protect and de- 
fend the liberties of their native and adopted Country. 

With high regard, Your friend and obedient servant. 

James Page. 
Messrs. E. Baudin, 

" G. GiRARD, 

" T. Tartter, 
" E. G. Eoussel, 
" C. Pegingne, 

Committee. 



CHAPTER IX. 
1861— ] 870. 

FIRING ON FORT SUMTER — CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS — FENCIBLES PREPARE 
FOR ACTIVE SERVICE — ORDERS — LETTERS — THE IStII REG. PA. VOL. — 
FENCIBLES AT BALTIMORE — LETTERS FROM THE FRONT — DEATH OF 
COL. THEO. HESSER — DEATH OP LIEUT. JAS. B. GRIER — FENCIBLES AT 
IIAGERSTOWN — RECOVERY OF THE BODY OF COL. HESSER — CHARLES 
NAYLOR ELECTED CAPTAIN — AFTER THE WAR — ANNIVERSARY — VISIT 
TO VALLEY FORGE — CELEBRATION OF BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS — 
VISIT TO ALBANY — VISIT TO GLOUCESTER — FENCIBLES AGAIN RESUME 
ACTIVE WORK. 

The year 1861 was ushered in with no abatement of the excite- 
ment, preparations were being made to inaugurate the new Presi- 
dent, Abraham Lincoln, and the Southern States threatening to 
secede from the Union. 

The Corps had made preparations for a Spring target firing; 
but it was doomed, for the firing on Fort Sumter on April 12th, 
led to the issuance of a proclamation by the President on the 15th, 
calling on the States for 75,000 volunteers to protect the Capitol, 
support the Government, enforce the Law, and vindicate the Na- 
tional Flag from Southern Rebellion. 

The Corps began at once to prepare for the conflict, and com- 
menced taking in new members. The Armory was kept open day 
and night for the purpose of instruction and drill. The original 
Company being full, an additional Company was organized, and 
on April 24th, both companies were mustered into the United 
States service, for the period of three months by Captain Neill, 
U. S. A. Captain Page tendered his services, but in consequence 
of his advanced age and disease of the throat, he was rejected, as 
being physically disabled for field service. 

Out of 85 officers and men who were active members before the 

war, 62 entered the U. S. service in the three months campaign ; 68 

were elected into the Corps after the President's Proclamation. 

from which the second Company was formed, and the Companies 

9 129 



]30 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

were lettered E and K, 18th Regt. Company E, commanded by 
Capt. John Miller and Co. K, by Capt. Theo Hesser. 

The Corps furnished the Government during the war 177 of its 
members, 28 of its retired members taking up the sword in defense 
of the Flag, making a total of 205. It is stated with much satis- 
faction that the active members to the number of 23 who did not 
enter the three months service, all but three afterward served 
the Government in the three-year service, fully sustaining our 
Latin motto, "Spectamur Agendo." (To be tried by our Actions) 
and preserved their ancient record that they were soldiers for war 
as well as for peace. 

The two Companies E and K, left the city on the night of May 
14th, with the 18th Pa. Regiment, and the 19th and 20th Regiments 
which formed the Brigade. They were landed at Locust Point, 
near Baltimore, and at once went under canvas. 

The City of Baltimore being in active sympathy with the South, 
a large force of 7,000 soldiers were stationed there for the protec- 
tion of the Capitol, and its communication with the Northern 
States. The troops were kept active in seizing arms and ammuni- 
tion that had been secreted, to be used for a general uprising in the 
interests of the rebel government. Thousands of arms and im- 
mense quantities of ammunition were captured from poUce sta- 
tions, cemeter}^ receiving vaults and numerous public places. 
Many arrests of public officials were made, among others \J. S. 
Marshal, Kane, all of whom were sent to Fort McHenry. The 18th 
Regiment was sent to Federal Hill, a very important and com- 
manding position overlooking the basin and located well into the 
city, and where very strict discipline was exacted. 

Company B, Capt. Peter Fritz, and Co. K, Capt. Theo. Hesser 
were detached and sent to Pikesville Arsenal, 12 miles below the 
city to guard the ammunition and other stores from destruction by 
rebel sympathizers, abundant in ^Maryland. This was later trans- 
ported to Fort McHenry by trains well guarded. It was only due 
to the fact that troops were stationed in Baltimore that the National 
Capitol was not cut off from, communication with the North. At 
one time it was found necessary to station troops at different points 
in the city to be prepared for emergencies expected; however, the 
troops were too many for them ; they made no trouble. 



1861 ORDERS— CAMP AT BALTIMORE 131 

The 
esting: 



The following orders and newspaper accounts may prove inter- 
tinff : 



Headquarters, First Regiment Infantry, 
First Brigade, First Division, P. V. 

Camp at Baltimore, May 18tb, 1861. 
Orders 
No. 1. 

The Colonel commanding prescribes the following as the regular 
routine of duty to be observed in the camp: — 

I. The Reveille will be beaten at 4 o'clock A. M. when the 
sentinels will leave off challenging, and the companies will as- 
semble on their respective parades for roll call by their first 
sergeants, superintended by a commissioned officer. 

II. Immediately after the roll call the tents shall be put in 
order by the men of the companies, superintended by the chief of 
squads. 

III. Breakfast call will be beaten at 6.00 A. M. 

IV. Surgeons call will be beaten at 7 o 'clock A. M., when the sick 
able to go about will be conducted to the hospital by the First 
Sergeants of companies, who will hand to th«! Surgeon a list of 
all of the sick in the company. 

V. The Troop will be beaten at 7'/^ o'clock A. M. when the 
men will be assembled for duty, inspection for guard mounting 
and dress parade. 

VI. Guard mounting at 8 o 'clock A. M. 

VII. First Sergeants call will be beaten at 9 o 'clock A. M. 
when the morning reports of companies signed by the captains 
will be handed to the Adjutant. 

VIII. Dress Parade at 10 o'clock A. M. 

IX. Roast Beef will be beaten at 1 o'clock P. M. 

X. Retreat will be beaten at sunset, when the companies will 
assemble for roll call on their respective parades. 

XI. Tattoo will be sounded at 10 o'clock P. M. when the rolls 
of companies will be again called. 

X] r. Evening Dress Parade is dispensed with until further 
orders. 

XIII. The OflScers of the Guard under the direction of the 
Officer of the Day, will make a general inspection into the clean- 
liness of the camp, shall suffer no fires to be made in the camp, 
except in the kitchens, and will cause all dirt or filth to be im- 
mediately removed and either burnt or buried. 

XIV. The Captains of Companies will immediately send the 
field return of their respective commands to these Headquarters. 

By command of 

Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Jr. 
T. F. G. Cooper, 
Adjutant First liegiment Infantry. 



132 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

Headquarters, First Regiment Infantry, 
First Brigade, First Division, P. V. 

Camp Pennsylvania, May 19th, 1861. 
Orders 

No. 2. 

I. The Colonel commanding announces to the Regiment that 
having received special orders No. 1 from Headquarters, he offi- 
cially informs it that this camp will be known as ' ' Camp Penn- 
sylvania. ' ' 

II. He is also directed to see that no musket or other small arm 
will be fired in the camp of this Regiment, unless by order and 
under his direction; and it is so ordered. This order includes the 
discharge of pieces by the old guard after marching off. 

III. Commanding Officers of Companies will read this order 
at the head of their commands for three consecutive day. 

By command of 

Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Jr. 
T. F. G. Cooper, 
Adjutant, First Beg't Infantry. 

The following is a letter from a volunteer: 

Camp Pennsylvania^ Federal Hill, 

Baltimore, May 25, 1861. 
The Inquirer. 

The Philadelphia troops stationed at this point continue in high 
spirit. * * * 

Yesterday we achieved another victory. Starting from Balti- 
more on another expedition we went, saw and conquered, as 
Ca;sar used to say some years ago. We paid our respects to the 
"Bloody Eighth Ward," and captured forty rifles and a few 
muskets, together with a sufficient quantity of ammunition and 
equipments to furnish an entire regiment. They were the prop- 
erty of the Carroll Rangers from Carroll County. They were con- 
cealed in the bed chambers, between the bed and the sacking bot- 
tom. Some were marked S. C. (Southern Confederacy). * * * 

Our boys are anxious to leave here. They do not want to go 
North until they have done more service in the South. Col. More- 
head, I believe, has offered his Regiment for three years. * * * 

Our Company place the utmost confidence in their officers. 
Lieutenants Stretch and Knorr, and Sergeants Koehler, Sauter and 
Fisher are perfect "trumps." They contribute no little share to- 
ward making Captain Miller 's Company ' ' gay and happy. ' ' 
More anon. 

State Fencible. 



1861 RESOLUTIONS— ORDKRS I33 

The following appeared in one of the newspapers in May of 1861 : 

At a meeting of the retired members of the State Fencibles held 
at the Wetherili House on the evening of the 22d instant, John H. 
Dohnert, Esq., was called to the chair. Major B. J. Williams, 
Capt. J. B. Barras and Robert Wood were chosen Vice-Presidents 
and Charles H. Masson and George R. Birch appointed Secretaries. 

The object of the meeting having been stated by Major Wil- 
liams, it was unanimously 

Fesolved. That this meeting form itself into a military organiza- 
tion to be entitled "The State Fencibles Old Guard" to act 
in conjunction with the city authorities. 

Resolved, That this meeting adjourn to meet on Wednesday 
evening, the 24th inst., at 8 o 'clock, at the office of Wm. Strut- 
ners. No. 1022 Market Street, and that all the active and retired 
members who remain in the city be invited to attend. 

Headquarters 18th Regiment Infantry, 

Camp Penna., Baltimore, May 23rd, 1861. 
Orders 
No. 3. 
In obedience to general orders No. 2, of May 21st, 1861, this 
Regiment will be hereafter designated as thd 18th Regiment of 
Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

By command of 

Col. Wm. D. Leavis, .Jr. 
T. F. G. Cooper, 
Adjtitant 18th Beg't Inf'ty. 

A very interesting order was published under date of May 28, 
1861, as follows: 

Headquarters 18th Regiment Infantry, 
Camp Federal Hill, Baltimore, May 28th, 1861. 
Orders 
No. 5. 
The Colonel commandiug, directs the commanding officers of 
companies to forthwith collect from the men of their respective 
commands, all pistols, bowie knives, and other small arms, which 
they may have in their possession, which arms, the said com- 
manding officers shall cause to be properly labeled with the names 
of the owners, and to be packed away carefully to be returned 
to them at the end of their term of service. 

By command of 

CoL. Wm. D. Lewis, Jr. 
T. F. G. Cooper, 

A djutant. 



134 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

Headquarters 18th Regiment Infantry, P. V. 
Camp Federal Hill, Baltimore, June 11th, 1861. 
Orders 
No. 9. 
The Colonel commanding, directs that immediately after Even- 
ing Dress Parade this day, commanding officers of companies will 
read to their respective commands the 46th Article of War, in 
reference to sentries sleeping on their posts, and instruct their 
men that the penalty therein prescribed will be strictly enforced 
against offenders. 

By command of 

Col. Wm. D. Lewis, Jr. 
T. F. G. Cooper, 
Adjuia7^t 18th Beg't. 

A newspaper notice : 

State Fencibles, Co. 's E and K, Capts. Miller and Hesser. 
A joint committee will meet at the Armory, Chestnut Street 
above Fifth, every day from 10 to 2, to facilitate the families 
of the members now in Camp in their application for relief. Do- 
nations of all kinds will be thankfully received and carefully 
distributed. 

Committee. 
M. G. Grier, J. B. Grier, 

J. G. Seitzinger, J. S. Brovpn, 

J. F. Magee, Chas. Page, 

Sam "l a. Murray, G. Cooper. 

The following is a complete list of the field, staff and company 
officers of the First Regiment Infantry, First Brigade, First Di- 
vision, P. v., mustered in the United States service as the 18th 
Regiment, April 24 and 25, 1861, by Captain Neill, U. S. A.: 

Colonel, William D. Lewis, Jr. ; Lieutenant Colonel, Charles 
Wilhelm; Major, Alexander E. Newbold; Adjutant, Thomas F. G. 
Cooper; Surgeon, Sam B. Wylie Mitchell, M.D. ; Assistant Surgeon, 
A. Owen Stille, M.D. ; Quartermaster, Jonathan T. Marshall ; 
Sergeant Major, Charles H. T. Collis ; Quartermaster Sergeant, 
Hardman P. Norris ; Chaplain, Rev. Henry W. Ducachet, D.D. ; 
Drum Major, Abram V. Bancker. 

Company A (Second Washington Blues) — Captain, John M. 
Gosline ; First Lieutenant, Gustavus W. Town ; Second Lieutenant, 
Thomas J. Town. 

Company B (First National Grays) — Captain, Peter Fritz; First 
Lieutenant, John ]\[. R. DeBuist; Second Lieutenant, William F. 
Schreiber. 



1861 COMPANIES OP EIGHTEENTH REGIMENT 135 

Company C (Gardo Lafayette)— Captain, Joseph Archambault; 
First Lieutenant, Edward Grosjean; Second Lieutenant, Constant 
Pequinot. 

Company D (Philadelphia Zouaves) — Captain, Edmond Baudin; 
First Lieutenant. Jules Jollivet; Second Lieutenant, Amdee Hu- 
dome. 

Company E (First State Fencibles)— Captain, John Miller; 
First Lieutenant, David T. Stretch; Second Lieutenant, Andrew 
J. Knorr. 

Company F (First Washington Blues)— Captain, Jacob H. 
Brattes; First Lieutenant, Enos Baldwin; Second Lieutenant, 
Elisha Hall. 

Company G (Minute Men of 76)— Captain, John S. Dull; First 
Lieutenant, Isaiah Bryan; Second Lieutenant, Jacob Hersch. 

Company II (Second National Grays) — Captain, John Maxwell; 
First Lieutenant, Peter B. Chadwick; Second Lieutenant, Jesse 
Simcox. 

Company I (Voltigeurs) — Captain. Gustavus S. Kintzing; First 
Lieutenant. John J. Sperry ; Second Lieutenant. Oliver 0. Robin- 
son. 

Company K (Second State Fencibles) — Captain, Theodore 
Hesser; First Lieutenant. Thomas II. Marston ; Second Lieutenant, 
Louis H. Plum. 

On May 14th, 1861, when the companies left in the 18th Regi- 
ment Infantry, commanded by Col. W. D. Davis, for Baltimore, 
the whole was under the command of Gen. George Cadwalader. 
Owing to the destruction of the bridges on the Bush and Gun- 
powder Rivers the troops had to be conveyed down the Chesapeake 
Bay and up the Patapsco River to Locust Point near Baltimore, 
where they encamped on the 15th. The encampment was soon 
after removed to Federal Hill, opposite the city. General Cad- 
walader was succeeded by Gen. N. P. Banks and General Banks 
by Gen. John A. Dix. While encamped at Federal Hill the two 
companies under Captains ]\Iiller and Hesser performed various 
duties in and about Baltimore until near the expiration of their 
term of service. During the time the Company was in service 
and detailed for special duty requiring ability and zeal, nearly 
one-half of its force at times were thus employed. 

The disastrous battle of Bull Run having occurred and the time 
of enlistment of the troops at Federal Hill being about to expire. 



136 ^'^^ HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

General Dix then in command made an appeal to the men to con- 
tinue in service. Captain Miller, of the Fencibles, was detailed by- 
Colonel Lewis as Mustering Officer to recruit those who were will- 
ing to serve beyond the three months; about one-half of the Regi- 
ment and the greater part of the Fencibles re-enlisted until troops 
could be sent to replace them. Many were anxious to return to 
organize companies for the three years' service, but enough was left 
to guard the interests of the government until relieved. After 
the re-enlistment, Captain Miller, with his Company and a por- 
tion of the National Grays, were placed as a guard on board the 
Powhatton at Fort McHenry, loaded with 3,300 barrels of bread 
for the Army, to protect her against the pirates who infested the 
Chesapeake, and run her under and past the guns of the Confed- 
erates at Acquia Creek, on the Potomac River. This duty was suc- 
cessfully performed and the steamer brought back in safety to Fort 
McHenry. 

"When they returned to Baltimore they found that the Regiment 
had been relieved by Duryea's Zouaves, nearly a week before. The 
Company was given transportation and returned home. The Regi- 
ment was mustered out of service, August 7th, and a large majority 
re-entered the service for three years at once, in different organi- 
zations, then being raised for the war. 

Before the Fencibles left for the front, their friends were so 
jiumerous and their interest in their comfort was such that they 
left nothing undone to add to their comfort. No body of men 
left the city more substantially cared for than the Fencibles. No 
one could have been more deeply absorbed in looking out for their 
comfort than Mrs. Miller, the Captain's wife, and a number of her 
lady friends. She was untiring in her efforts and she was never 
forgotten by the members of the Company. Many donations were 
received, one calls for mention from Charles Sidney Coxe, one of 
the original members of 1814. of $100. to be used for the needs of 
the members. 

A newspaper of the day said : 

The State Fencibles. 
This old company, started in the War of 1812, still maintains 
its organization, the few members remaining in the city, meeting 
at the Armory, for drill, every Tuesday evening. When the Presi- 
dent called for seventy-five thousand volunteers the Fencibles were 




CAPTAIN .lOH.X .MILLKK. 



1861 MEMBERS IN SERVICE OF U. S. 137 

mustered into the service of the United States by Captain Neill, 
of the army, and formed part of the Eighteenth Regiment of 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanded by Colonel William D. 
Lewis, Jr. ; John Miller, Esq., was Captain ; David T. Stretch. 
First, and A. Jackson Knorr, Second Lieutenants. A second com- 
pany of Fencibles was also formed out of the old one, and at- 
tached to the same regiment. Its oflicers were : Tlieodore Hesser, 
Captain; Thomas H. Marston, First, and Louis II. Plum, Second 
Lieutenants; all members of the old Corps, which body also fur- 
nislicd nearly all the non-commissioned officers for the two com- 
panies. Having served the full term of three months, and most 
of them an extra period of ten days, at the request of General 
Dix, they were mustered out of service with the Regiment, on its 
return to Philadelphia, and honorably disciiarged by Colonel Ruff, 
of the army. Since that time, many of the number have again en- 
tered the service for three years in difl'erent organizations. 

The following are the names, with the position they now hold: 

Theodore Hesser, Lieutenant Colonel, Fire Zouaves of Philadel- 
phia; served in the Mexican War. 

Thomas H. Marston, Captain, Company F, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

David T. Stretch, Captain, Company I, Thirty-first Regiment, 
P. V. 

E. Forrest Koehler, Captain, Company C, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment. P. V. 

Louis H. Plum, Captain, Company K, Philadelphia Fire Zouaves. 

Henry A. Cook, Captain, Company 1, Philadelphia Fire Zouaves. 

P. J. Smith, Captain, Company A, Second Regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves. 

Frederick Zarracher, Captain, Twenty-ninth Regiment, P. V. 

Jesse E. Millison, Captain, Twenty-ninth Regiment, P. V. 

W. A. Elsegood, Captain. Thirtieth Regiment, P. V. 

R. H. Ford, Captain, Company F, Fifth Regiment, Baker's 
Brigade. 

J. Anderson, Captain, Independent Zouaves, Twenty-fourth 
Regiment; served in the Mexican War. 

Orlando B. Griffith, Quartermaster, Thirty-first Regiment. P. V.; 
served in Creek and Mexican Wars. 

Matthew C. Grier, Adjutant, Thirty-first Regiment, P. V. 

Martin Tschudy, Adjutant, Twenty-fourth Regiment, P. V. 

Dr. D. D. Clark, Surgeon, Thirty-first Regiment, P. V. 

James F. Nagle, First Lieutenant, Company D, Twenty-first 
Regiment, P. V. 

Ferdinand Lopez, First Lieutenant, Company C, Thirty-first 
Regiment, P. V. 

James B. Grier. First Lieutenant, Company G, Thirty first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 



138 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

A. Jackson Knorr, First Lieutenant, Company I, Thirty-first 
Regiment. P. V. 

Joseph S. Rudolph, First Lieutenant, Company F, Thirty-first 
Regiment, P. V. 

W. K. Colburn, First Lieutenant, Company K, Philadelphia 
Fire Zouaves. 

,Tas. E. Audenried, First Lieutenant, Second Pennsylvania Cav- 
alry Regiment. 

Henry E. Williams, Second Lieutenant. U. S. A. 

Theodore Beck, Second Lieutenant, Company I, Thirty-first 
Regiment, P. V. 

Hampton North, Second Lieutenant, Second Pennsylvania Cav- 
alry Regiment. 

Ansel Hamberg, Second Lieutenant. Colonel Gregory 's Regi- 
ment. 

G. C. Roycroft, Second Lieutenant, Cameron Dragoons. 

John R. Pancoast, Quartermaster Sergeant, Juniata Regiment, 

James M. Colgan, Paymaster's Clerk, U. S. A. 

Fisher Wilson, Orderly Sergeant, Company I, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

C. C. Dryden, Orderly Sergeant, Company H, Thirty-eighth 
Regiment, P. V. 

E. W. Smith, Orderly Sergeant, Company F, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

John T. Hawkins, Sergeant, Company I, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

George Willingmeyer, Sergeant, Company I, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

John H. Haas, Sergeant, Company I, Thirty-first Regiment, 
P. V. 

Mahlon S. Mitchener. Sergeant, Company C, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

Frederick C. Diker, Sergeant, Company E, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

David P. Wolf, Sergeant. Mounted Rifles. 

Philip J. Taylor, Sergeant, Company I, Philadelphia Fire 
Zouaves. 

Benjamin J. Jones. Sergeant, Company I, Philadelphia Fire 
Zouaves. 

Vincent P. Donnelly, Sergeant Major, Twenty-third Regiment, 
P. V. 

David H. Andrews, Sergeant, Mounted Rifles. 

,Tohn R. Hickman and Thomas Muldoon, Sergeants of Cavalry. 

A. V. Bancker, Drum Major, Twenty-sixth Regiment, P. V. 

Miranus Bancker, Drummer, Twenty-sixth Regiment, P. V. 

C. Ross Carver, Corporal, Company I, Thirty-first Regiment, 
P. V. 



1861 DEATH OF COLONEL HESSER 139 

Christopher Dunn, Corporal. Coinpanj- C, Thirty-first Regi- 
ment, P. V. 

William D. Evans, Corporal, ( '(imi)any K, Philadelphia Fire 
Zouaves. 

William Hunter, Corporal, Comj)any H, Mounted Rifles. 

William Justice, Corporal, Twenty-ninth Regiment, P. \'. 

William Elliott and George L. Roosch, Privates, Philadelphia 
Fire Zouaves. 

William B. Dale, P. Fritz Holman, Joseph Miller, Henry Munna, 
William J. Miller, and Ambrose Wilson, Privates, Zouaves, Cap- 
tain Collis. 

The following officers now in service, were formerly members of 
the Feneibles: 

Colonel William F. Small, served in the Mexican War. 

Lieutenant Colonel F. Vallee. Thirty-first Regiment, P. V. 

George W. Nagle, First Lieutenant, Company A, Twenty-third 
Regiment, P. V. 

The Colonel of the Thirty-first Regiment, P. V., D. H. Wil- 
liams, is an honorary member of the Corps. 

^[any Feneibles enlisted for three years in Regiments then organ- 
izing, after being mustered out of the 18th, many of them joined the 
82nd, which was being organized by close friends of the Feneibles 
in Reading and Philadelphia, and was often called the State Fenci- 
ble's Regiment. The field and staff and many of the line being 
members of the Feneibles. Quite a number went with Colonel 
Hesser into the 72nd Regiment. Colonel Hesser lost his life at 
Mine Run. He was a model soldier, kind and brave, and his loss 
was severely felt by his men, and the Feneibles who had associated 
with him for many years.* 

On October 27th, a Flag was presented, on behalf of many 
ladies, by Colonel Page, to the 31st Regiment P. V., Col. D. H. 
Williams, encamped at Washington, D. C. This Regiment had 
in it many of the members of the State Feneibles. 

After the members who had re-entered the service left for the 
front. Captain Page and some few of the members who did not re- 
enlist, began to reorganize the Company in order to preserve it^ 
continuous existence, by electing into the Company quite a num- 
ber of young men, among whom were William J. Volkmar, a very 
bright young man of rare ability. He was appointed Drill Master 
and held that position until he was appointed by the Presi- 

*See Appendix. 



140 O^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

dent to West Point Military Academy in 1864, and was later com- 
missioned as Colonel in the United States Army. 

In the latter part of 1862, Capt. James Page arranged with 
Capt. Charles Page, an old Fencible, commanding the Nay lor 
Guards, attached to the Blue Reserves, a ^Militia Regiment ; to take 
service with the Feneibles in order to preserve the Corps from 
lapsing. Their members were also elected into the Company and 
afterwards elected Charles Page as Captain, and George J. Naylor 
as 1st Lieutenant. They were later assigned as Company D. 33rd 
Regiment, Blue Reserves, Penna. Militia. 

On February 22nd, 1863, the Corps paraded in honor of the day, 
under Capt. John Miller, who soon after retired from the command 
which he had held for the three months service with great credit 
and ability, enjoying the esteem and confidence of his superiors 
and the love and respect of the members of the Corps. 

July 1st, occurred the death of Lieut. James B. Grier, of the 
State Feneibles, at Malvern Hill before Richmond. He was Quar- 
termaster of the 82nd, formerly 31st P. V., Colonel Williams, 
acting as aide to the Colonel. He accepted the position of Quarter- 
master with great reluctance, and at the earnest request of the 
Colonel. After the battle of Fair Oakes (not being present) he 
insisted upon being returned to duty as a line officer or to be per- 
mitted to take part in any engagement in which his Regiment par- 
ticipated. This was granted him by special leave as an order had 
been issued that no Quartermaster should leave his train, lie fell 
because he availed himself of this permission, in the first engage- 
ment, by a misdirected shot from the Federal battery. His zeal 
and fidelity was remarkable for one so young in years. 

Armory of State Fencibles. 

July 15, 1862. 

At a special meeting held this evening the following resolutions 
were unanimously adopted: 

Resolved, That we deeply lament the death of our young friend 
and brother Fencible, First Lieutenant James B. Grier, of Com- 
pany G, 82d (formerly 31st) Regiment, Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers. Colonel D. H. Williams, who fell in battle before Rich- 
mond, on the 1st instant, while bravely sustaining the Union, 
the Constitution, and the Laws. 

Besolved, That for one so young, the finest traits of character 
were exhibited in his opening career — a cheerful, and affectionate 
disposition, an earnest and enthusiastic search after knowledge— 



1862 RESOLUTIONS— GOVERNOR CURT INS PROCLAMATION J^l 

habits wholly unexceptional — morals without stain, (hitifii! as 
a son, respectful and obedient as a soldier; able, firm, and kind 
as an Officer, with an honorable ambition and a sincere love of 
country— all giving promise of a bright and useful life, thus sud- 
denly eclipsed by a premature death. 

Resolved, That our solace, and that of his afflicted family and 
distressed friends, must be that he died pure and good, in the 
discharge of man's noblest duty, and now calmly sleeps with his 
"martial cloak around him" in a soldier's grave, dug in the soil 
dyed with patriotic blood, and which was moistened by the tears 
of his comrades as it shut him forever from their sight. 

Eesolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to his af- 
flicted i)arents, and the proceedings of this meeting be published. 

W. W. Dickson, 
Secretary pro tern. 

In September of this year the Fencibles were called into service 
by the Governor, and under the command of Col. Alfred Day, per- 
formed good service during the retreat of the Confederate Array 
from Antietam. 

On June 26th, 1863, Govi^rnor Ciirtin issued a proelamation 
calling for more troops to protect the State from invasion. 

Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville had emboldened tlw ene- 
my to more aggressive ventures. Lee began to withdraw his 
army from Hooker's front on the Rappahannock early in June, 
1863, concentrating his army at Hagerstown, Maryland, and pre- 
pared for a campaign in Pennsylvania, with Harrisburg as the ob- 
jective point. His army was organized into three corps, under the 
respective commands of Longstreet, Ewell and A. P. Hill. Lee 
had divided his army so as to approach Harrisburg by different 
routes and to assess the towns along the way for large sums of 
money. Late in June he was startled by the intelligence that 
Stuart had failed to detain Hooker, and that the Federals had 
crossed the Potomac and were in hot pursuit. 

On the evening of June 15th, Jenkin's Confederate Cavalry Bri- 
gade occupied Chambersburg. 

The first note of warning, indicating that the Government was 
alert to the situation, was a War Department order of June 
9th, 1863. which established in Pennsylvania two military depart- 
ments, one with headquarters at Harrisburg and the other at 
Pittsburg. 

The President in his proclamation of the fifteenth, stated that 
the armed insurrectionary combinations now existing in several 



142 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1863 

States threatened to make inroads into the States of Maryland, 
West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio requires immediate addi- 
tional military forces for the service of the United States. He sum- 
moned from the State of Maryland and West Virginia each 10,- 
000 ; the State of Ohio, 30,000 ; the State of Pennsylvania, 50,000 
volunteers to serve for the period of six months, unless sooner 
discharged. 

On June 16th, Governor Curtin issued a proclamation calling 
for troops, concluding with the following paragraph : 

' ' I now, therefore, call upon the people of Pennsylvania capable 
of bearing arms to enroll themselves in military organizations 
and to encourage all others to give aid and assistance to the 
effort which will be put forth for the protection of the State 
and the salvation of our common country. ' ' 

The Armory of the State Fencibles was opened and recruiting 
actively commenced. On June 19th, the company being recruited 
to the maximum number, proceeded to Harrisburg where it was 
ordered into quarters at Camp Curtin, and on the 24th, were mus- 
tered into the United States service by Captain Busch, U. S. A, 

To the call of June 15th, eight Regiments of Infantry, the 20th, 
the 26th to 31st inclusive and the 33rd, together with a number 
of independent companies, responded. 

Another call was made by the Governor on June 26th. "The 
enemy," he said, "is advancing in force into Pennsylvania — the 
call already made for volunteers in the emergency has not been 
met as fully as the crisis requires. ' ' To this call twenty-eight Regi- 
ments of Infantry from the 32nd to the 60th inclusive, except the 
33rd, responded together with several Battalions and independent 
companies. 

The construction of fortifications on the heights, on the right 
bank of the Susquehanna to cover Harrisburg and its important 
bridges had already made some progress. 

Jenkin's Cavalry Brigade which entered Chambersburg on the 
15th, entered Carlisle, but eighteen miles away, from the west on 
the morning of June 27th, at ten o'clock. 

On the 26th, the Fencibles marched to Camp Taylor where an 
election was held and Charles Page was elected Captain, and 
George J. Naylor, First Lieutenant. The Company was assigned 
to the 33rd Regiment, Penna. Vol.. Col. W. W. Saylor. The Bri- 
gade was commanded by General Brisbane and the Division by 



1863 FENCIBLES AT CARLISLE 143 

Gen. Baldy Smith, U. S. A. On the 28th, there was a skirmish with 
the Rebels near Camp Taylor. 

Carlisle remained in the hands of the enemy until the dawn of 
Wednesday, July 1st. 

General Brisbane had been directed to move his Brigade by 
]\Iud Road to Carlisle at daylight on July 1st. Vexatious delays 
followed from insufficient transportation facilities, and it was 
nine o 'clock before the column was well in motion toward its desti- 
nation. The temperature of the weather; the early morning frit- 
tered away in tedious delay, unseasoned troops caused many to 
fall by the wayside. A halt at noon in a woods gathered the scat- 
tered column and fed and rested the men. 

General Ewen with his command reached Carlisle at three 
o'clock in the afternoon and occupied a position on the main road 
of the brow of a hill overlooking a valley about a mile south of 
the town. The entire command reached its destination late in the 
afternoon. It was still daylight when the firing began and it 
lasted until about one o'clock in the morning. 

A whole day at Gettysburg had gone — Lee's only day of tri- 
umph — and Fitzhugh Lee's Brtgade was not there. The Penn- 
sylvania and New York INIilitia had held him in dalliance where he 
accomplished nothing and prevented him from hastening to where 
he might have accomplished much. 

Independence Day, 3 863, was everywhere eventful. Vicksburg 
had fallen, Gettysburg was won. 

On this day the entire Division of General Smith, Generals 
Kniepe's, Ewen's and Brisbane's Brigades left Carlisle and moved 
by way of Papertown Road to Mount Holly, six miles distant. 

On the morning of July 6th, the troops of the Division were 
moved by different routes to Newman's Cut. On the 7th, to Mount 
Alto Furnace. It was said by one who kept a diary of this march 
that "the rain came down in torrents, harder than ever, and by 
three P. M. it was so wet that you would have to walk through 
one foot of water to find one inch of ground." 

On the 8th, the troops arrived at Waynesboro and went into 
camp in line of battle a mile and a half out from the town on the 
road to Hagerstown. There they remained over the 9th, awaiting 
orders. On Friday, the 10th, orders were received to be in readi- 
ness to move. However, on Sunday, we find them in camp spend- 
ing a quiet day holding religious services. 



144 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1863 

On Monday, the 13th, at eight o'clock, the entire Brigade again 
resumed the march, this time to Hagerstown, some twelve miles 
distant, whence the enemy had withdrawn the day before. It 
reached its destination about six o'clock. Now in close touch with 
the right wing of the Army of the Potomac and the Cavalry force 
imder General Kilpatrick the Brigade, with the Cavalry, proceeded 
to uncover the enemy, who still maintained lines not far distant. 
The Thirty-third, to which the Fencibles were attached, became 
briskly engaged in quite an active skirmish, acquitting itself most 
eommendably and suffering a loss of nine men wounded, and one 
killed. 

Upon the announcement that Lee's Array had recrossed the 
Potomac at Williamsport, the several Regiments returned to camp. 

On July 16th, general orders from Governor Curtin declar- 
ing the emergency over, the troops would return to their home 
rendezvous as soon as transportation was available, was published 
at the evening parade. General Brisbane made a speech con- 
gratulating the troops, also expressing his appreciation for the 
services they had rendered. 

Bates, in his History of Pennsylvania Volunteers, said of these 
troops : 

' ' They came forward at a moment when there was pressing 
need. Their presence gave great moral support to the Union 
Army at Gettysburg — Called suddenly to the field from the walks 
of private life, without a moment's opportunity for drill or dis- 
cipline, they grasped their muskets, and by their prompt obedience 
to every order showed their willingness — all unprepared as they 
were — to face an enemy before whom veterans have often 
quailed. ' ' 

During the Winter the Regiment showed signs of dissolution 
and in the Spring nothing was left but the Fencibles Company, 
which was kept together awaiting the return of its members serving 
in the field, who upon returning required a rest after the arduous 
duties they had been performing. Accordingly no active part was 
taken in any demonstration, other than their regular monthly 
meetings which were held at the office of Colonel Page or at the 
office of Dr. Schenk, and sometimes at Dr. Wetherill's house on 
Sansom Street above Sixth. It may be well to state that in order 
to reduce all unnecessary expenses, the property of the Company 



1863 DURING THE WAR— RESOLUTIONS 145 

was stored in a place of safety, and the Armory abandoned until 
furtlier arrangements were made to place the Company in active 
service. On two occasions it was decided to make application for 
election, but was postponed. 

On November 27th, occurred the death of Lieut. Col. Theo. Hes- 
ser, who had commanded Company K, of the Fencibles, during the 
three months service. 

Armory State Fencibles. 

December 1, 1863. 

At a stated meeting held this evening, the following resolu- 
tions were unanimously adopted: 

Eesolved, That the Company has heard with profound regret and 
deep sorrow of the death of Lieutenant Colonel Theo. Hesser, of 
the 72d Regiment, P. V., who fell while gallantly leading his 
regiment in the advance on Orange Court House, on the 27th ult. 
Associated, as that lamented officer has been, with this organiza- 
tion for many years, and, at the time of his death, still a mem- 
ber of it, we cannot but remember the efficiency of his service in 
promoting its discipline, increasing its usefulness and adding to 
its reputation ; nor shall we ever forget those traits of character 
which endeared him to us as a friend and companion. A volun- 
teer from his arrival at man 's estate, he evinced a passion for 
military life that was followed by the closest application in the 
attainment of a knowledge of duty. In the Mexican War he was 
among the first to obey the calls of his country, and passed 
through all its perils with honor and without a wound. In all 
the battles of the Army of the Potomac he was present, dis- 
tinguished for his coolness and bravery, escaping without injury 
up to the day of his lamented fall. 

Eesolved, That in the death of this accomplished Officer the 
country has lost as tried and true a soldier as ever drew a sword, 
the community an esteemed and valued citizen, his friends a cher- 
ished associate, and his family a devoted and affectionate hus- 
band and father. 

Eesolved, That in the event of the recovery of his body, and 
its interment in his native city, this Company will attend the 
funeral, and perform the last sad military rites over his grave. 

Eesolved, That these resolutions be published and a copy of 
them tendered his bereaved family. 

Charles Page, 
Wm. J. VoLKMAR, Captain. 

Secretary. 

10 



146 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1863 

In Camp Stevensburg. Va. 

Dec. 6, 1863. 
At a meeting of the officers of the Seventy-second Regiment, 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, the following preamble and resolutions 
were adopted : 

Whereas, It has pleased the All-wise Father to remove from 
us our brave and gallant Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Theo- 
dore Hesser, who has been our companion in arms through all our 
battles, trials and deprivations, suffering with us in defeat, and 
rejoicing with us in victory; therefore. 

Resolved, That iu the death of Lieutenant Colonel Hesser we 
feel that we have lost an able officer, a brave soldier, a generous 
friend, an affable companion, and our country one of her most 
devoted servants. 

Besolved, That we deeply sympathize with the widow and rela- 
tives of Colonel Hesser in this, their hour of sorrowful bereave- 
ment, and for their consolation we desire to inform them that our 
Commander fell while bravely fighting for his country, and nobly 
exposing himself to personal danger, for the purpose of saving 
those under his command from captivity, wounds and death. 

G. Collins, Chaplain, 

President. 
Captain Robert MoBride, 

Secretary. 
Captain H. A. Cook, 
Captain E. B. Whitaker, 
Lieutenant T. J. Rorer. 
Committee on Resolutions. 

On Jul}' 12th, 1864, the resignation of Capt. Charles Page and 
Lieut. George J. Naylor were read and accepted. 

Under a call from the Governor for 12,000 men for 100 days' 
service, the Company was ordered to recruit to the maximum num- 
ber, and offer for services. The Company elected Charles Naylor 
for Captain and E. W. Smith for 1st Lieutenant. The Company, 
not being accepted, most of the recruits entered the service for 100 
days in the old Regiment. 

A book now in possession of the State Fencibles is indorsed 
thus: 

' ' The book used and belonged to Col. William D. Lewis, of the 
18th Regiment, P. V. (and who commanded the 1st Regt. P. M.) 
during their service of 3 months at Baltimore, 1861, was left in 
the State Fencibles Armory after their return home. It contains 




LIEUT. COL. THEODORE HESSER. 
(Captain- State Fexcibles.) 



1864 RECORDS— AFTER THE WAR 147 

the minutes of tlio ("oiiiiuiny from 1864 until its iTvival to 
activity. ' ' 

The minute books of the C'orps had been stored away for safety 
and were not again resurrected until 1871. The First Regiment 
was composed of the following Companies before entering the 
service of the United States: 

State Fencibles, Captain Page. 

National Grays, Captain Fritz. 

National Guards, Captain Pyle. 

Independent (5rays, Captain Braceland. 

Minute Men, Captain Berry. 

City Fencibles, Captain Foley. 

Guard Lafayette, Captain Archambault. 

Zouaves Du Afric, Captain Baudin. 

Philadelphia City Guard, Captain Vallee. 
The Field Officers were Wm. D. Lewis, (Jolonel; Charles Wil- 
helm, Lieut. Colonel; Alexander Newbold, Major; T. F. G. 
Cooper, Adjutant. 

When poace dawned in 1865, nearly all of the old volunteer or- 
ganizations suffered from an apathy which can only be ascribed 
to the exhaustion of the four years' terrible struggle through which 
the nation had passed. Out of the many organizations there sur- 
vived only the First Troop, the National Guards, (now the Second 
Regt. Inft'y) and the State Fencibles. 

The minutes of the Fencibles of September 2nd, 1864, show a 
resolution to place all the old minute books in a vault for safe 
keeping for the active Corps on their return from the "Field of 
Battle." 

In October, a meeting was held at the home of Capt. James 
Page. On December 4th, at a meeting held at the home of John 
Poulson, a resolution was passed requesting all Fencibles 
who had enlisted for three years and whose term had expired to 
meet with the old Company, January 7th, 1865. at which meeting- 
many members were present. Other meetings were held February 
3rd, March 3rd and on April 7th, at the invitation of Col. John 
Thornley, the meeting was held at the American Hotel. 

On May 5th, a committee was appointed to arrange for the cele- 
bration of the 52nd Anniversary of the Corps, which was held on 
May 26th, with 39 members present and many guests. 

The first Fall meeting was on October 6th, with 59 members on 
the roll. Other meetings were held November 3rd and Decem- 
ber 1st. 



148 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1864 

On Monday, October 16th, 1865, notice was received that the 
body of Lieutenant Colonel Hesser had been recovered. The 
notice read in part as follows : 

The body of Lieut. Col. Theodore Hesser, who was killed in the 
operations at Mine Run, November 27, 1863, has been recovered. 
Lieut. Col. Hesser at the time in command of the 72d Regiment 
Penna. Vol. (Baxter's Fire Zouaves). It was impossible to re- 
cover the remains until lately, and they are now at Monument 
Cemetery, where the funeral will take place to-morrow at 4 P. M. 
The officers and members of the 72d and of the State Fencibles of 
which Col. Hesser was a member, will participate. 

The first meeting for the year 1866 was January 9th, followed 
by one on February 8th. On the 10th of April, a committee was ap- 
pointed to arrange to celebrate the 53rd Anniversary of the Corps 
at the home of Dr. Wetherill, IMontgomery County. 

The following are extracts from the minutes : 

Infantry Corps State Fevcibles. 

Philadelphia, May 26th, 1866. 
The Corps assembled at the house of John Poulson at 8 o'clock 
P. M. for the purpose of celebrating the 53d Anniversary of 
the Corps, a number of invited guests were present among whom 
were Maj. Gen. Robert Patterson, Gen. George Cadwalader, Col. 
William D. Lewis, and Stephen Anderson. Many speeches were 
made and the company were entertained by some select pieces 
by the Hiawatha Glee Club. Many toasts were given and all 
enjoyed the evening, the Company adjourned at midnight well 
pleased with the entertainment. 

Philadelphia, June 5th, 1866. 
Twenty of our members and Si number of invited guests boarded 
the train for the residence of Dr. Wetherill in Montgomery 
County, arriving there about nine o 'clock A. M. where we were 
met by the Doctor and a number of his friends from Reading. 
After partaking of lunch we were shown over the farm and other 
points of interest connected with the Revolution, crossing the 
Schuylkill in boats, we visited Valley Forge, returning to the 
house at 2 o 'clock. The Company sat down to dinner which was 
a magnificent affair, the table with its decorations were beau- 
tiful, after spending nearly two hours at the table the Company 
adjourned to the lawn where dancing was enjoyed. As the time 
drew near for our return home, Auld Lang Syne was sung and 
good-byes were said to our generous host. We took carriages for 



1866 MEETINGS— REUNIONS OF VETEKANS 149 

the train, arriving home early in the evening, never to forget 
the pleasant day spent with the Doctor, his ladies and friends. 

Charles T. Packer, j 

Secretary. 

On October 9th, a resolution was passed tendering the thanks 
of the Corps to Doctor Wetherill and his ladies for the entertain- 
ment provided on June 5th. ' 

At a meeting in December, arrangements were completed to cele-^ 
brate the Anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans. 

On January 8th, 1867, the Corps met at the home of John Poul- 
son to celebrate the Battle of New Orleans. A banquet was served 
and Fencible spirit reigned supreme. 

The meetings of February 12th, iMarch 12th, and April 9th^ 
were held at the store of Doctor Schenk, Sixth and Arch Streets. 

On May 26th, the Corps celebrated its 54th Anniversary' with 
a banquet. Among the guests present were Gen. Robert Patterson, 
Gen. George Cadwalader and Colonel Williams. During the even- 
ing Edward Conner recited Shakespeare's "Seven Ages of Man." 

On October 8th, at a meeting held at the Wetherill house, Sansom 
above Sixth Street, a resolution was passed which caused a notice 
to appear, calling for a meeting of the Fencibles to be held on the 
28th. 

On October 28th, a reunion of the surviving members of the 
State Fencibles was held at the house of Colonel Page, 272 S. 
Fourth Street. Among those present were Henry J. Williams in 
his 76th year; James J. Barclay, aged 73; John J. Breban, aged 
75 ; Henry C. Carey, aged 74 ; Charles S. Coxe, aged 76 ; F. Good- 
win, aged 74 ; Charles A. Grice, aged 75 ; C. N. Hagner, aged 71 ; 
A. Hildebrandt, aged 77 ; Gabriel Kerns, aged 76 ; John Biset, aged 
73; R. H. Small, aged 72, and James Page aged 73 years. Aggre- 
gating 965 years. The absentees were Joseph R. Ingersoll, John B. 
Budd, George N. Hagner, W. L. Hodge, Baldwin Gardiner and 
John S. Green. 

New York, November 6th, 1867. 
Colonel James Page. 

Philadelphia. 

Sir: 

Eeferring to the enclosed slip cut from the New York Daily 
Times of Monday, November 4, 1867. I beg to inform you that 
my father, Baldwin Gardiner, a member of the "Fencibles" in 



150 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1867 

1814, is still living in his seventy-eighth year. Supposing that 
this might be interesting to at least some of the survivors, at 
his request I write these lines, and remain. 

Yours respectfully, 

Chas. Chauncey Gardiner. 
54 William Street. 

On November 12th, an invitation was received from Mrs. John 
Drew to visit her theatre on Thursday evening. It was accepted, 
and the Corps attended in a body. 

At the meeting in January, 1868, the following officers were 
elected for the civil body : James Page, President ; John Melloy, 
Vice-President ; Thomas Moore, Secretary ; Martin Leans, Treas- 
urer. 

During February several of the Fencibles visited the Albany 
Burgess Corps, at Albany, N. Y.. and were received in the most 
cordial manner. 

On February 20th, occurred the death of the Hon. Joseph R. 
Ingersoll, one of the original projectors of the Corps, and the first 
signer of the agreement in his handwriting for its formation. He 
was a member of Congress from the City of Philadelphia, and Min- 
ister to England. He was a most accomplished and popular citizen 
and died universally lamented.* 

On March 10th, the Fencibles were honored by the presence of 
Lieut. William Volkmar, U. S. A., late Sergeant in the Fencibles 
and a graduate from West Point, who made an address. 

The 55th Anniversary was celebrated on May 26th. The Fall 
meeting was held on October 13th, followed by one November 10th, 
and December 8th. 

The first meeting for the year 1869 was held January 12th, and 
by March 9th the active spirit of the old Fencibles again began 
to manifest itself. At this meeting a committee was appointed to 
secure an Armory and ascertain the cost of a new fatigue uniform. 

On May 26th, the 56th Anniversary was celebrated with a shad 
dinner at Gloucester, N. J. Early that morning the Corps assem- 
bled at the Wetherill House, Sixth and Sansom Streets, and 
marched to South Street ferry, where they took the boat for 
Gloucester. There were 39 members present and several guests 
among whom were General Pleasonton, Gen. R. Patterson, Col. 
George Magee, Captain Archambault. At 4 o'clock the dinner was 

*See Appendix. 



1869 ANNIVERSARY— RESUMING ACTIVE WORK 151 

served at the Buena Vista Hotel. Other meetings for the year were 
held October 12th, November 9th, and December 14th. 

On January 11th, 1870, the Corps discussed the proposition of 
attaching to one of the Regiments, and Capt. Edward E. L*acker 
(present Quartermaster) was appointed inter alia, to make an in- 
vestigation and to report at the next meeting. The same question 
came before the meeting on March 8th, and the committee was con- 
tinued. 

On May 10th, the Corps celebrated its Anniversary at the house 
of Jolm Poulson. Walnut above Eighth Street, with 32 members 
present. The rooms were beautifully decorated ; one of the pleasing 
incidents of the evening was a greeting from J. J. Barclay, one of 
the survivors of Camp Du Pont, who not being able to be present 
owing to his age paid his respects by letter another example of 
the maxim ''Once a Fencible — always a Fencible. " 

On October 11th, the committee made its final report on the 
question of resuming active work and found that while the older 
members were opposed to again entering active service it was 
unanimously resolved that an effort be made to enlist younger men 
in the Corps and that they in turn make the necessary application 
for reinstatement. 



CHAPTER X. 

1871. 

CAPTAIN JOHN W. RYAN ELECTED NEWSPAPER CRITICISM A PROTEST 

COURT MARTIAL ORDERS NO. 1, 1871 TROUBLE AT SCRANTON — ■ 

NEW RIFLES — FENCIBLES AWARDED CHAMPION FLAG OP PENNSYL- 
VANIA NEW UNIFORMS VISIT TO CAMDEN RIOTING IN ItH AND 

5th WARDS NEW ARMORY EIGHTH REGIMENT DISBANDED FENCI- 
BLES ASSIGNED TO ItH REGIMENT EXHIBITION DRILL AT HORTICUL- 
TURAL HALL. 

In January 1871, an application was made to Captain 
Page, by John W. Ryan (late Captain of Co. A, Baxters 
Zouaves), and a number of members who had retired from that 
Company for membership in the State Fencibles. Accordingly, a 
meeting was held by the Corps, February 7th, 1871, Capt. James 
Page in the chair. The roll being called, the following answered 
to their names: James Page, John Melloy, B. J. Williams, Edward 
E. Packer, Chas. T. Packer, George L. Roesch, Harry A. Cook, John 
E. Potter, B. F. Hesser, Fred. Zarracher, Henry Headrick, Robt. 
Clymer, James Miller, E. "W. Smith, Vincent Donnelly, Aug. Shaff- 
ner, J. T. Hawkins, Peter Binder, Charles Logue, Thomas Moore, 
Thos. McCabe, John Robb, John Terner, Ansel Hamburg., Isaac 
Caffrey, Wm. F. Van Hook. 

An electing committee was appointed to examine all applicants. 
John Melloy, B. J. Williams, Harry A. Cook, Ed. E. Packer and 
Fred. Zarracher were appointed, and the following were elected: 
H. C. Briggs, Wm. H. Binder, H. S. Wilt, George Getz, Syl. A. 
Leith, J. C, Shallcross, Wm. H. Hargrave Wm. Grain, John C. 
Jefferies, J. W. Ryan, R. E. Pattison, Wm. Letterman, Amos Tru- 
man, H. C. Rushton, E. S. Bartlett, T. A. Beck. 

It was resolved that a memorial be prepared, to be signed by the 
members of the State Fencibles, requesting the Commander-in- 
Chief to issue an order for an election, for such officers as are pre- 
scribed by the 13th section of the Act of May 4th, 1864, and that 
they be reinstated in their old rights and privileges enjoyed prior to 

152 



1871 APPEAL TO GOVERNOR— OR DKKS 153 

that Act. A eoniniittee of three was appointed to proceed to Ilar- 
risburg with the petition, consisting of John W. liyan, John Melloy, 
and Ed. E. Packer. The following is a copy of the petition: 

To His Excellency, the Governor of the State of Pennsylvania: 

Honored Sir: — We, the undersigned members of the Volunteer 
Company of State Pencibles of the First Division, Penna. Militia, 
State of Pennsylvania, request the Commander-in-Chief to issue 
an order for the election of such officers as are prescribed by the 
13th section of the Act of May 4th, 1864. Said Company to be 
attached to the 8th Regiment of said Division, Col. Robert Grey 
commanding. 

In response to the above petition the following order was re- 
ceived at 4th Brigade Headquarters, February 3rd, 1871, from 
the Adjutant General's office through ]\Iaj. Gen. Chas. Prevost, 1st 
Division, N. G. P. 

Adjutant General's Office, 

Harrisburg, Feb. 3, 1871. 
Lieutenant Colonel H. G. Muirhead, Inspector First Division, 
National Guard of Pennsylvania, through Charles M. Prevost, 
Major General First Division. 

Notice having been received at this office that a Military Com- 
pany called ' ' State Fencibles ' ' has been recruited by James Page 
and others at Philadelphia, to be attached to the Eighth Regi- 
ment, National Guard of Pennsylvania, in accordance with the 
Militia Law of the Commonwealth, you are hereby authorized to 
hold an election for officers of said Company, making prompt re- 
turns to these headquarters. 

By order of 

J. W. Geary. 
Governor and Commander-in-Chief. 
3igned. A. L. Russell, 

Adjutant General of Pennsylvania. 

In compliance with orders from Harrisburg (of the 3rd of Feb- 
ruary last) the above company met at the City Armory, Broad and 
Race Streets, on Thursday evening, March 2nd, for the purpose of 
electing their officers. The attendance was ver\^ large, and the 
feeling all that could be wished by the most enthusiastic friend of 
the Company. On opening the nominations for officers Col. James 
Page was nominated for Captain, by Benjamin J. Williams ; and 
the nomination was seconded by acclamation. The old commander 
of the Fencibles, of fifty years standing, was deeply affected by 



154 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1871 

this mark of love and confidence, shown by those of tlie old Com- 
pany present, and the sons of many of the members who have 
passed away. The Colonel declined the honor in a feeling speech, 
in which he alluded to the past record of the Corps and to some 
of the members who gave their life that the nation might live. 
Prominent among those mentioned was, Lieut. Col. Theodore Hesser, 
who was killed at Robinson's Tavern, near Mine Run, Va. Hesser 's 
military life began as a State Fencible. He was a talented and 
high-toned gentleman as well as an accomplished soldier, and the 
mention of his name brought the tears of grateful remembrance 
to the eyes of many of those present. 

The next nomination was John "W. Ryan, and on motion of Col- 
onel Page, the nomination closed for Captain. For First Lieuten- 
ant, William R. Smith, late of the Fourth Regiment, was nomi- 
nated by E. E. Packer; no opponent. For Second Lieutenant, E. 
E. Packer, nominated by Captain Ryan, no opponent; and on mo- 
tion of Colonel Page the nominations were declared closed. Soon 
after, the election officer, in full uniform, made his appearance, 
and the above named gentlemen were elected to their respective 
positions, as Captain, First and Second Lieutenants of the Volun- 
teer Corps of State Fencibles of the First Division, N. G. P. After 
the announcement of the election being over by the officer, speeches 
were made by Adjutant Ward, of the Eighth Regiment; Colonel 
Page, Colonel Cook, Lieutenant Packer, Captain Ryan, Private 
Pattison and others. 

The officers elected were sworn in as officers of ' ' The State Fenci- 
bles" b,y Captain Potter, Brigade Inspector. 

At a meeting on March 2nd, after electing 12 more members, 
late of Co. A, 4th Regiment, the following officers were nominated 
and unanimously elected for the Civil Board : President, James 
Page ; Vice-President, B. J. Williams ; Treasurer, Wm. Van Hook ; 
Financial Secretary, D. R. Porter; Recording Secretary, J. E. 
Hoffman. 

It may seem strange that there would be any opposition to the 
reorganizing of this honored Corps, but there was and from those 
high in Military Circles, who were at that time, probably not 
aware that the organization did not cease to exist, and that it was 
composed of many Veterans who had struggled on many hard 
fought fields and were just as ready to fight for their rights which 
our Governor had justly acknowledged. The high standing of 





Cp'^y/^/ /f. /{yy^i^ 



1871 A PROTEST— COURT MARTIAL 155 

the Corps in the City of Philadelphia, its services in peace and 
war, and its existence dating back to 1813, when organized to fight 
for their country's Flag, and its continued existence, was duly 
considered by the Governor who granted the petition. 

The Legislature having been requested to restore to the Corps 
its old rights and privileges that it enjoyed previous to the Act of 
1864, much influence was brought to bear on them to deny the 
request. A petition sent to Ilarrisburg read as follows: 

January 19th, 1871. 

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: 
We, the undersigned petitioners do earnestly and respectfully 
ask that your Honorable Bodies will refuse to pass any Act au- 
thorizing the formation of any Independent Military Company 
or Comi)anies within the First Military Division of the Common- 
wealth, as such fornuition will be prejudicial to the efficiency 
and in every respect detrimental to the best interests of the 
Military Service therein, and we will ever pray. 
Charles M. Prevost, Major Gen., 1st Div., N. G. P. 
J. W. HoFMANN, Brif). Gen., '2d Brig., Ist Div., N. G. P. 
D. W. C. Baxter, Brig. Gen., .3d Brig., 1st Div., N. G. P. 
Wm. B. Thomas, Brig. Gen., 4th Brig., 1st Div., N. G. P. 
Louis Wagner, Brevet Brig. Gen., Prov. Brig., 1st Div., N. G. P. 
James W. Latta, Col., 1st Infantry. 
R. Dale Benson, Lieut. Col., 1st Infantry. 
James D. Keyser, Major, 1st Infantry. 
A. J. Sellers, Col. Major, 4th Infantry. 
J. B. W. Mitchell, Lieut. Col, 4th Infantry. 

Whilst the above petition was well meant by the signers, who 
with three exceptions, did not thoroughly understand the reasons 
that prompted the execution of this paper, they certainly did 
learn of the imposition by events that took place at a later period. 
That they were not unfriendly with the Corps, was frequently 
shown by the interest they later displayed, especially so was Col. 
James "W. Latta. who afterwards became Adjutant General, and to 
whom the Corps has been greatly indebted on many occasions for 
his courtesy and just decisions. 

On March 8th. an order for a Division Court INIartial was is- 
sued to try 37 members who had previously withdrawn from Co. 
A, 4th Regiment, and joined the Fencibles. The court was pre- 
sided over by Maj. James D. Keyser, and the "culprits" were ably 



156 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1871 

defended by one of the members, Robert E. Pattison,* who was 
then a law student. After havmg three meetings and none of the 
charges being substantiated, the Court adjourned thus ending the 
burlesque, that was then being ridiculed by the entire press of the 
City. Yet as late as May 8th, 1872, the Colonel of the 4th, not 
succeeding with the Division Court Martial, convened a Regimental 
Court Martial, and this proved a greater burlesque than the first. 
It was not to be wondered why the Colonel, loath to lose these men, 
for they were examples for others ; they gave their closest attention 
to their duties ; their attendance at drill was remarkable, and it was 
no unusual occurrence to have 100 per cent, on drill. f If a member 
was absent from drill he was very soon reminded that there were 
others waiting to take his place, and so it continued until 1878, 
when the Battalion was formed. At this time, the original mem- 
bers of the Corps finding the Company in such a flourishing condi- 
tion and continuing to gain fresh accessions to its ranks, decided 
to retire from active service and reorganize the "Old Guard" 
which was to be social in character, and leave but one of their num- 
ber in the active Company who was then the 2nd Lieutenant. tf The 
three Company officers were elected honorary members of the asso- 
ciation. 

Sunday Transcript, Philadelphia, March 12th, 1871, said: 

The Militia in Philadelphia. 
There seems to be a determined effort on the part of certain 
members of the militia in this city to destroy the organization. 
The citizen soldiery here have never received much encouragement; 
but if, added to supposed neglect, there is positive assaults and 
personal malignity, the days of the militia are indeed numbered. 
Before the Rebellion our volunteer organizations consisted of com- 
panies with distinctive names, although attached to regiments, 
and the parades of each were attended with no little enthusiasm. 
The war broke up the regular organizations of these companies; 
but now we are beginning to perceive a disposition to renew the 
friendships of the past and revive the old feelings which tended 
so much to keep alive the militia of Philadelphia. No sooner is 
this announced, than we have the usual petty practices incident 
to Philadelphia, and efforts are made to prevent the organization 
of "crack companies" merely because those interested are not 
in favor with those in authority. Take the State Fencibles as 

•Twice elected Governor of Pennsylvania. 

tFor Muster Roll, see Appendix. 
tfEdw. E. Packer, the present Battalion Quartermaster with rank of Captain. 



1871 FIRST ORDEK BY CAPTAIN RYAN 157 

an example. This time honored organization, dating liafk to 
the War of 1812, a participant in the effort to preserve the 
Union, and whose rolls show that it has given from its ranks some 
of the best blood in the city, seeks to reorganize. Elsewhere such 
an announcement made by a company with such a record w(tuld 
have been hailed with delight. Here it is met at the threshold 
by mean and unoflBcerlike opposition from high and low quarters 
— falsehood and detraction not being considered weapons un- 
worthy the contest. Succeeding, notwithstanding this opposition, 
and organizing with the officers regularly elected, the next move 
is to court martial the majority of those who i)ropose to join the 
ranks of the State Fcncibles, because they prefer that to another 
company in another regiment. To make the matter still more ab- 
surd and censurable, the party preferring charges of "insub- 
ordination" and "conduct prejudicial to discipline," cannot 
refer to the records of the regiment to which he was formerly at- 
tached and show that he ever received an honorable discharge. 
General Prevost is understood to be lending himself to this petty 
malignant feeling, which if carried to a successful issue, must 
result in the destruction of the entire militia in Philadelphia. 
General Prevost and Colonel Sellers and the whole of the cabal 
should understand that the citizens of Philadelphia are not slaves, 
and will not tamely submit to a ukase that requires them to join 
one particular regiment under the penalty of a court martial. 
The business is "played out," and before long the authors of 
the latest persecutions will also find themselves in the same pre- 
dicament. 

The first order issued by Captain Ryan was as follows: 
Armory State Fkncibles. 

Philadelphia, March 24th, 1871. 
Company Order, No. 1: 

The Command will assemble at the Armory in Blue Uniform 
on Thursday evening at 8 o'clock for Inspection and Drill. 

By order of 

J. W. Ryan, 

Captain. 

Shortly thereafter the following announcement was made; 
Headquarters National Guard op Pennsylvania, 
Adjutant General's Office. 

Harrisburg, Pa., April 10th, 1871. 
Major General Chas. M. Prevost, 

Covimanding 1st Div., N. G. of Penna., 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
General : 

Our Commonwealth imperatively requires within her own 
borders, a well equipped and organized Militia. Were anything 



158 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1871 

else wanting, events which have transpired within the last few 
days clearly demonstrate this necessity. Her community of in- 
terests, and the business enterprises of her people, have come to 
be such that a serious riot in any locality awakens general appre- 
hension, as no single important business pursuit can be thus, even 
temporarily, disturbed, without injuriously affecting others. 

Our Company organizations should, therefore, be increased 
numerically to the maximum, and each Battalion and Regiment 
filled to its proper standard. 

I am directed by the Commander-in-Chief to call the attention 
of Major Generals and Brigade Commanders to this important 
subject, and to request their active and earnest efforts to effect 
this desirable result. We have inexhaustible military material, 
and the proper spirit animates our people to accomplish the or- 
ganization of an efficient Volunteer force. 

The Major Generals and Brigade Commanders of the National 
Guard are, without exception, Officers of intelligence and military 
experience. Her line Officers, too, have, generally seen active 
service, and it cannot be questioned that their zealous co-opera- 
tion would create a State Military power which would reflect 
credit upon themselves, and honor on the Commonwealth. 

This subject is earnestly submitted to your consideration. 
By order of the Governor. 

A. L. Russell, 
Adjutant Gen'l of Penna. 
Official : 

Headquarters, 1st Div., K G. of Pa., 
Philadelphia, April 14, 1871. 
George H. North, 

Ass't Adj't Gen 'I. 

Adjutant General's Office, 

Harrisburg, Pa., Ajjril 8th, 1871. 
Major General Chas. M. Prevost, 

Commanctivg 1st Div., N. G. of Penna., 
Philadelphia, Pa. 

General : 

In view of recent events, and the knovA-n existing relations be- 
tween Employers and Employees, especially in the Anthracite 
Coal Region of our State, a prudent caution suggests that the 
Commanders of Military Divisions in those sections should hold 
their organizations so disciplined as to be prepared at any mo- 
ment to respond to any call that may be made upon them. 

The public peace and order must be maintained, and I am 
directed by the Governor to bring the subject to your notice, that 
should necessity arise, the Military organizations of your Division 



1871 RAILEOAD RIOTS 159 

may be thus ready to respond to any call that may be made 
upon them to aid the civil authorities in enforcing and vindicat- 
ing the laws. 

Very respectfully, &c,, 

A. L. Russell, 
Adjutant Gen'l of Pennn. 
Official : 

Headquarters, Ist Div., N. G. of Pa., 
Philadelphia, April 14, 1871. 
George H. North, 

Ass't Adj't Gen'l. 

The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

All Quiet at Scranton. 
General Prevost, early yesterday afternoon, received the fol- 
lowing telegram, which induced him to countermand the order 
■which he had issued to the 1st Division, namely, to be in readi- 
ness to proceed immediately to the scene of the coal riots: 

Harrisburg, April 8, 1871. 
Major General Prevost: 

The following telegram just received : 

Scranton, April 8, 1871. 
A. L. Russell, 

Adjutant General, Harris'burg. 
Am here with all my division. Have furnished guards to Mayor 
for all points required. Am holding reserves well in hand. Think 
we are equal to the emergency. No disturbance on arrival of 
troops. Ammunition plenty. 

E. L. OSBORN, 
Major General. 
By order of Governor, 
A. L. Russell, 

Adjutant General. 

On the evening of March 31st, 1871. the Cori)s had their first 
drill with the new breech loading rifles and were serenaded by Cole- 
man's Navy Yard Band. During the evening the following ap- 
pointments were announced to the Honorary Staff: 

Adjutant, Col. Henry A. Cook. Quartermaster, Lieut. John Mel- 
loy. Assistant Quartermaster, Capt. Hobert Ford. Paymaster, 
Col. John Thornley. Assistant Paymaster, Jere. Hutchenson. Sur- 
geon, Dr. "Wetherill. Engineer, Peter Binder, Jr. 

The Corps on May 8th, made its first appearance since its re- 
organization. They paraded in the champion uniform that was 



160 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1871 

worn by Co. A, 4th Regiment, when they took part in the compe- 
tition drill with the Montgomery Guard of Boston. (They had 
not yet decided on the dress uniform to be worn by the 
Corps.) They proceeded to join the 8th Regiment and were as- 
signed as the right Company ; the Regiment then marched to the 
East Park where they were inspected. The Corps was mustered 
as Co. G, of the 8th. The Company at that time was very active, 
perfecting themselves in handling the new breech-loading rifles, 
and the drill generally. On May 23rd, they assembled for a uni- 
form drill. During the evening they were presented with a Stand 
of Colors, that had been previously presented to the Corps by the 
ladies of Reading, Fatland and Philadelphia, before the Civil War, 
and were now transferred to the Corps by the retired members. 
They were also presented with two splendid silk marker flags, by 
Mr. Oram, a member of the Corps. 

On May 30th, Decoration Day, the Company paraded as an es- 
cort to E. D. Baker Post, No. 8, and assisted in decorating the 
graves of 800 Union soldiers buried in Glenwood Cemetery. 

The following announcement was made in one of the daily 
papers : 

Notice. 
The Champion Company Color of Penna. 
To be awarded next 4th of July, at Cor. of 

Broad & Market Sts. 

By " H " Company, 8th Reg 't. Gray Guards, 

N. G. P. Captain R. M. Robinson, Commanding. 

To the Company of the National Guard of this 

State which shows the greatest 

proficiency in Military Drill and Discipline. 

' ' The drill for the State Champion Colors, offered by Co. H, of 
the Eighth Regiment * * * ^vju take place on Penn Square 
on the Fourth of July, ensuing, immediately after the Division 
Parade. * * *. " 

The Corps paraded on Jmie 2nd. with the Regiment to German- 
town where they gave a dress parade, after which they marched 
to Chestnut Hill and took the train for home. 

Early in the morning of July 4th, the Corps assembled at the 
Armory, 505 Chestnut Street, to raise the National Colors, on the 
new flag staff, presented to the Corps by the James Page Library- 
Association. After the ceremony, the Corps assembled for parade 



1871 PENNSYLVANIA CHAMPION FLAG IGl 

with the 1st Division. After the Division was dismissed, the Com- 
pany marched to the N. W. Penn Square at Broad and ^larket 
Streets, to compete for the Champion Flag, offered by Captain 
Robinson. The Company gave an exhibition drill and the Hag 
was then awarded to them. They were then invited to take refresh- 
ments by Mr. Donaldson, corner Broad and Filbert Streets. 

A serious accident took place just before the drill. One of the 
stands erected for the judges, being overcrowded, gave way, and sev- 
eral were injured. One boy died a short time after, of his injuries. 

An account of this drill was follows: — 

The "State Fencibles, " Company G, 8th Regiment Infantry, 
in pursuanee of a notice mdely circulatetl by the present cus- 
todian of the Chamj)ion Flag, Captain K. M. Eobinson, assembled 
yesterday morning at 10 o 'clock on Penn Square, to compete for 
the same * * * the judges appointed consisted of General 

Wm. B. Thomas, and Pleasonton, and Captain R. M. Robinson 

* * ft 

Tiie ' ' Fencibles ' ' went through the Manual of Arms, Company 
movements, skirmish drill, mysterious drill, &e., and the liberal 
encores bestowed by the numbers who witnessed the movement of 
the Company showed the appreciation in which the "Fencibles" 
are held by Philadelphians. 

In the month of July, an organization known as the "Heath 
Zouaves of Pittsburg," were about to make a tour of the principal 
cities of the country, for the purpose of competing for the cham- 
pionship of the United States. The Fencibles at once decided that 
they would challenge them for the championship of Pennsylvania. 
At once they set to work preparing for the contest. They drilled 
every evening in Independence Square, excepting Sundays, dur- 
ing the hottest weather. The Corps understanding that the 
Zouaves were to be presented with the Champion Flag of the 
United States, on a certain evening in Pittsburg. Captain Ryan 
went to that city and after witnessing the ceremony, stepped upon 
the stage and challenged the Zouaves for the flag before leaving 
Pennsylvania. The Zouaves, however, paid no attention to this 
challenge, and thus the Fencibles after three weeks of hard work, 
were doomed to disappointment. The Heaths ignored the challenge 
and started West to Cincinnati, where they were badly beaten on 
their first drill by the Cincinnati Zouaves, after which they re- 
turned home dismayed and thus ended their tour. 
11 



162 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1871 

On September 22nd, the Corps paraded with the Division in 
East Fairmount Park to take part in nnveiling the Lincoln monu- 
ment. After the review, the Division marched to the Citj^ and was 
dismissed. 

On October 5th, the Corps paraded for the first time in their 
new dress uniform, accompanied by McClurg's Liberty Cornet 
Band. They first marched to the residence of Col. James Page, 
South Fourth Street, where the Company was drawn up in line 
and the band played "Auld Lang Syne," after which the Corps 
paraded through some of the streets and returned to the Armory 
at 6 'clock. At 7.30 in the evening the Corps reassembled and pro- 
ceeded to Camden, N. J., to attend the reception of Co. B, of that 
city. They returned to the city and attended the reception of Co. 
F, 2nd Regiment, N. G. P. The new uniform consisted of a dark 
blue dress coat, double-breasted with gilt trimmings, sky blue 
pants, white overgaiters, blue epaulettes with gilt trimmings, white 
belts, and lynx skin shako. 

There was serious rioting on October 10th, it being election day, 
in the 4th and 5th wards,. Three men were killed and f^everal 
were wounded, and the Militia of the city were assembled in their 
Armories in readiness to suppress disorder, if found necessary, but 
it quieted down and the men were dismissed. 

On October 11th, the Corps, accompanied by McClurg's Cornet 
Band, marched to the Baltimore Depot, Broad and Washington 
Avenue, to receive Co. A, of the 13th Brooklyn Regiment, N. G. 
N. Y., who were on their way home from Washington. The Corps 
with their visitors marched to Broad and Filbert Streets where 
a collation was spread. After the speeches were made, the line of 
march was taken up to the Armory. In the evening they were 
escorted to the depot, and departed for their homes. 

On November 1st, the Corps removed to its new quarters in the 
City Armory, Broad below Race, parading with all their equip- 
ment, looking very much as if they were departing for the seat 
of war. On the 13th, the Company performed the last sad rites 
and buried with funeral honors the remains of a brave soldier, 
and Veteran of the Civil War, Gen. E. M. Gregory, also 
Colonel of the 91st Pa. Volunteers, an esteemed member of 
the Corps and their staunch friend. On November 30th, 
Thanksgiving Day, the entire 4th Brigade was ordered Cor in 
spection at Broad and Girard Avenue. The day proved to be very 



1871 RECEPTION— EIGHTH REGIMENT DISBANDED 103 

disagreeable, the wind was terribly high and very cold. The Fenei- 
bles was the only Company of the 8th Regiment that reported, all 
the other companies of the Regiment were disbanded. Orders 
were issued shortly after, attaching the Corps to the 4th Regiment 
which Avas also doomed to dissolution. 

On December 30th, the Corps with the assistance of the Old 
Guard, gave a grand reception at Horticultural Hall, including an 
exhibition drill. It proved to be very successful and entertaining, 
to the great satisfaction of those who had charge of the arrange- 
ments, and to their many friends and admirers present. The 
stage was resei*ved for the invited guests, among whom were the 
following distinguished persons: General Drum, U. S. A.; Gen- 
eral Sackett, U. S. A. ; Pay Director Pettit, U. S. N. ; General Aber- 
crombie, U. S. A.; Gen. Wm. B. Thomas, N. G. P.; Col. Robt. 
Deckert, 2nd Regiment ; Gen. George Cadwalader ; Commodore Hall, 
U. S. N. ; Paymaster Russell, U. S. N. ; Captain Maddox, U. S. N. ; 
Lieutenant Meade, U. S. N. ; Morton McMichael; John S. Morton, 
President Market St. R. R. ; Edw. Connor, Tragedian, and many 
others. After a few quadrilles the floor was cleared for the drill. 
The Corps made a grand entree in their full dress uniform, and 
went through their drill which consisted of Company Movements 
and the Manual, by command and drum tap, the loading and firing, 
standing, kneeling and lying down, skirmish drill and baj^onet 
exercise and after a short rest, the Corps gave their mysterious 
drill which was done by signals not noticeable to the audience. 
The exercises ended with the manual done without the command^ 
including the loading and firing, which created great enthusiasm. 
After the drill, the guests were entertained by the Officers and Old 
Guard in the banquet hall. The dancing ended at three o'clock in 
the morning when the members and their friends departed for their 
homes, after spending a very pleasant evening. 



CHAPTER XI. 

1872—1873. 

ATTEMPT TO FORM A BATTALION — VISIT TO WILMINGTON CHALLENGE 

OP THE MONTGOMERY GUARDS OF BOSTON — FOUNDER'S DAY, GIRARD 
COLLEGE — PRESENTATION OF SILVER PITCHER — EXCURSION TO AT- 
LANTIC CITY — DEATH OP GEN. GEO. G. MEADE — SURVIVORS OF THE 
ADVANCED LIGHT BRIGADE — BRAVES ON TIP TOE — HON. WILLIAM D. 
KELLEY — INAUGURATION OP GOV. JOHN F. HARTRANPT — INAUGU- 
RATION OF PRESIDENT U. S. GRANT — VISIT OF ALBANY BURGESS CORPS 
THE MILITARY ACT OP 1864 A TESTIMONIAL. 

At the first meeting of the Corps in 1872, a resolution was offered 
and passed appointing a committee to consider the advisability of 
increasing the Corps to a Battalion of four Companies. The com- 
mittee reported progress for many months, and the measure post- 
poned. The Corps, however, on all occasions paraded as a Bat- 
talion. A resolution was also adopted, taking steps to have the 
Corps incorporated. 

February 1st, the Corps having accepted an invitation from 
Co. A, 1st Regiment, N. G. D., to attend their fair held at Masonic 
Temple, Wilmington, Delaware, and give an exhibition drill, 
accordingly they, with McClurg's Band, and an Honorary com- 
mittee of sixty-five gentlemen, one of whom was Gen. George Gor- 
don Meade, left the Armory and marched to Broad and Washington 
Ave., where they took the 4 o'clock train for the city of Wilmington, 
arriving at their destination at 5.30. They were escorted to the hall 
by Co. A, Captain Kilgore. 

The notice of this affair was as follows: 

MILITAEY FAIR, 
Masonic Temple, 
Thursday Evening, Feb. 1st, 1872. 

Grand Exhibition Drill, 

State Fencibles of Philadelphia, 

Champion Company of the U. S. 

Captain John W. Ryan. 

164 



1872 EXHIBITTOX DKILL—PARADK— NOTICE ]65 

Part One. 
A Formation of Comjiany. 
B Manual of Arms in open and closed ranks. 
C Company movements. 
D Tap drill. 

Part Second. 
E Loading and firing. 
F Loading and firing kneeling. 
G Loading and firing lying down. 
H Bayonet exercise. 
I Silent Drill. 
J Lightning drill. 

On the arrival of the command they were welcomed by Mayor 
Valentine. Speeches were also made by Mr. H, Jenkins, General 
]\Ieade, Colonel Page, and Captain Ryan ; they were then invited to 
supper. At 8 o'clock, the Company assembled and gave an exhibi- 
tion drill, on the stage, which was received with much applause. 
The Corps took the train at 10.30 P. M., and returned to the 
Armory. 

On February 26th, the Company, accompanied by Beck's Band, 
attended the reception of Co. F, 2nd Regiment, previous to which 
the Corps tendered an escort to Co. D., 1st Regiment, who were to 
attend the same. Accordingly, the Corps marched to their Armory 
on Ladner Street, from where they both marched to the National 
Guards' Hall, 6th and Race Sts., and spent a verj'^ pleasant evening. 

On March 13th, the Company paraded its full strength for in- 
spection with the 4th Regiment, and were inspected by General 
Plofmann. This was the last time the 4th Regiment made a public 
appearance, its Commander was absent and the Companies present 
if consolidated, would not have made one good Company. This 
was the Fencibles first and last parade with the 4th Regiment. It 
was disbanded shortly after, the Fencibles being the only Company 
to survive. 

The Republic, March 17th, 1872, tried to encourage the Regi- 
ment with the following: 

Fourth Eegiment. 

This command assembled for inspection at the City Armory on 
Wednesday evening. Owing to the absence of Colonel Gray, Lieu- 
tenant Colonel Hulseman assumed command. 

The Ist, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th companies were uniformed and the 
5th and 6th in citizens attire. The following was the strength: 

First Company (A, State Fencibles), 35 muskets and 2 officers. 



166 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1872 

2nd company, 29 muskets and 2 officers. 3rd company, 25 mus- 
kets and 2 officers. 4th company, 22 muskets and 2 officers. 5th 
company, 16 muskets and no officers. 6th company, 25 muskets 
and no officers. Total, 152 muskets and 8 officers. 

After the inspection by General Hofmann, which was creditably 
performed, the command was exercised in the manual, loading 
and firing, and a few evolutions. We congratulate the officers and 
men of the 4th, on their turn out on this occasion. The strength 
could not have been anything else but gratifying to the friends 
of the Eegiment. We hoi>e the Regiment will be uniformed alike 
at once, and that the field officers will give all the time and at- 
tention they can bestow in behalf of the command. It will afford 
us pleasure to report, at all times, the progress and improvement 
of the reconstructed 4th. 

During this month the Montgomery Guards of Boston, issued a 
challenge to drill for the championship of the United States. As 
many members of the Fencibles were formerly members of Com- 
pany A, 4th Regiment, who, a few years before contested with them 
for superiority in drill under Captan Ryan, it was decided to em- 
power a committee to make inquiry and report to the Company. 
The committee consisted of Captain Ryan, Lieutenants Smith and 
Packer, John Melloy, Privates H. C. Briggs and Robert Brown. 
The committee was instructed that the Fencibles would not drill 
for a money consideration and only for competition. The two com- 
mittees met in New York City, where matters were discussed. The 
challenge issued by the Montgomery Guards was to drill according 
to Upton's Tactics, which was satisfactory to both. The Guards 
then wanted to exclude the bayonet exercise and skirmish drill, as 
Captain Mullen claimed he did not understand the bugle call. The 
Fencibles, however, agreed to waive the bayonet exercise and the 
bugle in the skirmish drill, but not the skirmish drill as it was 
argued, by the Fencibles, that this was an important portion of the 
tactics which all military bodies should thoroughly understand. 
The Guard still wavered and the Fencibles' Committee then pro- 
posed that the several points in dispute be referred to General 
Upton or some other army officer and each company abide by the 
decision. To this proposal the Guards refused to submit. Our com- 
mittee at once broke off the conference, being fully satisfied that 
they did not care to enter into competition with the Fencibles. 
Their former experience warned them that they would meet a 
formidable foe. Some time after this conference, a resolution was 
offered and passed, at a stated meeting of the Corps, forbidding the 



1S72 INSPECTION— DECORATION DAY— ORDERS IfiJ 

participation in competitive drills outside of the State of Pennsyl- 
vania. 

The Corps having received an invitation to be present at Girard 
College on the Founder's Birthday, May 21st, early that afternoon 
they assembled in full uniform accompanied by a full band, and 
marched to the College. Upon arriving at the entrance, they were 
received and escorted by the cadets, to the parade grounds, where 
they gave an exhibition drill, after which they participated, with 
the cadets, in a dress parade. After this ceremony the Corps was 
hospitably entertained by the authorities of the College. Late in 
the afternoon they departed for the Armory. 

On May 23rd, orders were issued from Brigade Headquarters. 
General Hofmann commanding, for inspecting and muster of the 
4th Regiment, Co. A. The Fencibles were promptly on the ground, 
and was the only Company to report. They were inspected and 
found as they have ever been, par excellent in discipline and drill, 
and always enjoying the confidence of the highest military authori- 
ties. The 4th Regiment, alas ! was no more. 

May 30th, being Decoration Day, and in consequence of the heavy 
stormy weather all ceremonies were postponed until June 2nd, when 
the Corps paraded as escort to E. D. Baker Post No. 8 to Glenwood 
Cemetery. 

On Jime 1st, the Corps having received an invitation from E. D. 
Baker Post to accept their hospitalities at the house of George Laus- 
ter at Ridge and Fairmount Ave., accordingly in citizens dress, 
with blue badges, they marched to that place and spent a pleasant 
evening ; hearing some very good singing by the Leiderkranz Sing- 
ing Society and members of the Company. 

July 4th, Independence Day, there being no parade, a number 
of the members assembled at the Armory in the evening, when the 
Corps was presented with a silver pitcher by Capt. George Deviney, 
of the Honorary Staff of the Corps. 

The following order was read at the stated meeting in July : 

Headquarters N. G. P. 
Habrisbueg, Pa., June 19, '72. 
Special Order No. 11. 

Robert Gray, Col. 4th Eegt. Infantry, 1st Division N. G. P., 
having tendered his resignation is hereby honorably discharged, to 
take effect June 14th, 1872. By order of John W. Geary, 

A. L. Russell, Gov. and Commander-in-Chief . 

Adjutant General. 



168 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1872 

On July 19th, the following was received : 

Headquarters 2d Brig. N. G. P. 
Special Order No. 5. 

The Command of the 4th Regt. Infantry being devolved upon 
Capt. John W. Ryan, this officer vnW take charge of, and will be 
held responsible for all regimental property. 

By command of Brig. Gen. Hofmann. 
Wm. Hoffman, 
A. D. C. 

On August 27th, 1872, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the 
afternoon for an excursion to Atlantic City. It mustered 3 Com- 
missioned Officers, 4 Staff Officers, 23 Musicians, and 56 ^luskets ; in 
addition to the Corps there were 6 members of the Old Guard, and 
an Honorary committee of 15 gentlemen, friends of the Corps. 
After leaving the Armory they proceeded down Arch Street to 
Newall & Sons where a photograph was taken. They then marched 
to the ferry and took the 3.30 train and arrived at their destina- 
tion at 5 o'clock. After a short parade they arrived at Congress 
Hall where quarters had been arranged. The members then pro- 
ceeded to the dining room where ample justice was done to the 
many tempting edibles spread before them. 

In the evening a grand reception was given by Mr. George W. 
Hinkle, the proprietor, Avhich was largely attended by the guests 
of the hotel and other houses of the city. The orchestra was con- 
ducted by Prof. B. McClurg, the decorations were furnished by 
John S. Lee, Esq., Major Berry, Moore, and Phillips. The festiv- 
ities were held until midnight when all retired. 

The notice of this excursion read as follows : 

Philadelphia, August 24th, 1872. 
Bear Sir: 

You will please report to the City Armory, Broad below Race 
Streets, on Tuesday afternoon, August 27th, at 1: 30 o'clock 
(sharp) in dark pants and coat, white vest, light high hat, white 
gloves, and linen duster, to take part in our excursion to Atlantic 
City, as one of the Honorary Committee of our Corps; to proceed 
over the following route: Broad to Arch, to Newell & Sons to 
have Company photographed; from thence to Seventh, to Chest- 
nut, to Third, to Vine, to Wharf, and take 3: 30 express for 
Atlantic City. 

McClurg 'b Band will report in full dress at the same time and 
place. By order of John W. Ryan, 

JosiAH ToRR, Captain Commanding. 

Secretary. 



1872 EXCUESION TO ATLANTIC CITY 1(59 

On the morning of the 28th, the Corps assembled and made a 
short street parade before breakfasting, and after the inner man 
had been satisfied, the members were privileged to enjoy themselves 
in boating, fishing, bathing, and driving, until dinner. In the 
afternoon the Corps marched to the spot selected and designated 
by his Honor the Mayor for target practice. The following gentle- 
men acted as Judges: Capt. J. H. Carter, Lieut. P. L. Goddard, 
Geo. W. Hinkle, S. W. Weaver, Geo. Hoff, Esq., and James Pariera. 
In the evening a grand ball was tendered to the Corps by General 
Selfredge and Mr. Davis, of the United States Hotel, which was a 
magnificent affair; made enjoyable by the presence of many ladies, 
and with the courteous attentions of General Selfredge, who was 
Master of ceremonies. The festivities closed at 12 o'clock. 

On Thursday morning, the twenty-ninth, the Corps made an- 
other parade, eliciting much praise for their splendid marching 
and soldierly bearing. On returning to their quarters they were 
drawn up in line, and Colonel Page awarded the medals to the 
successful marksmen, giving a history of each badge as presented. 
Much merriment was occasioned when Private Reeves was presented 
with the leather medal for the Avorst shooting on the target. The 
Company was then dismissed for breakfast. 

The day not being suitable for out-door enjoyments the members 
organized a concert in the hotel parlor, where IMiss Von Shomburg, 
the niece of Colonel Page, rendered some beautiful selections from 
several operas. The gentlemen vocalists of the Corps, consisting 
of Mr. McCollin, H. C. Briggs, Mr. Brewer, Mr. Getz, and others, 
delighted the listeners w'ith some good singing. In the after- 
noon Prof. McClurg, with his talented performers, enlivened the 
occasion with a concert on the hotel porch. In the evening the 
Corps, by invitation of the JMisses Trenwith and Wallace, indulged 
in a Hop at the Sea View House. The weather being very unfavor- 
able the attendance was not large, and at 12 o'clock the members 
returned to their quarters. 

On Friday the 30th, this being the day for the departure, the 
morning was spent in bathing, fishing, and promenading around the 
city, bidding adieu to the many friends and acquaintances formed 
during their visit. After dinner the Company assembled, and Colonel 
Page took occasion to compliment Captain Ryan and officers and 
members of the Fencibles for their imiform good conduct and gen- 
tlemanly deportment; on behalf of the ladies to express their re- 
grets that the stay had been so short, and hoping that the 



170 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 18T2 

visit would be repeated another season. Colonel Page introduced 
Mr. Collins, who, on behalf of the residents, thanked the Corps for 
the pleasure they had been instrumental in producing and hoped 
to have the pleasure of seeing them again. Mr. Hinkle, the worthy 
host, made a short address, and finished by saying "whenever you 
want to visit Atlantic City, Congress Hall is always ready to re- 
ceive you." After bidding adieu, the Corps, preceded by the band 
playing, ' ' The Girl I Left Behind INIe. ' ' marched to the depot and 
•entrained for Philadelphia. On arriving at Vine St. Ferry they 
were met by a deputation of citizens and escorted to the Armory. 
Along the route fireworks were displayed, which lent brilliancy to 
the scene and brightened the finish of the excursion. 

During the month of November, the Corps paraded with the 1st 
Division to take part in the funeral ceremonies of the late Gen. 
George G. Meade, U. S. A., who served with distinction in the Re- 
bellion, and who Commanded the Army of the Potomac at the Bat- 
tle of Gettysburg. He was a great friend of the Fencibles, and took 
great interest in the Corps, frequently complimenting them on their 
perfection in drill. The following letter was read by tire Captain 
at the stated meeting in December: 

Headquarters OiiO Guard State Fencibles. 

November, 1872. 

The Commander announces, with sincere sorrow, the sudden and 
unexpected death of Maj. Gen. George G. Meade, U. S. A. 

The loss of" this accomplished gentlemen, gallant officer and 
brave soldier, is a national calamity, and his memory should be 
cherished by all who love their country, and would do honor to 
true patriotism and civic virtues. 

The Old Guard will therefore, report in full uniform, at the 
Armory of the State Fencibles, Broad and Race Streets, on Mon- 
day, the 11th inst., at 9 o'clock, to take part in the funeral cere- 
monies. By order of Col. James Page, 
Col. F. Vallee, Commander. 
Adjutant. 

Crape on left arm above the elbow. 

The Republic, November 10th, 1872, published the following no- 
tice: 

Attention, State Fencibles! 

A special meeting of the State Fencibles will be held this 
(Sunday) afternoon at 2.30 o'clock, at the City Armory. Every 
member must be present. 

By order of John W. Ryan. 

Captain. 



1872 ORDERS— RESOLUTIONS 171 

General Plofmann, commanding the 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, 
N. G. of Pa., issued the following orders in reference to the funeral 
of the late Gen. George G. Meade : 

Headquarters Second Brigade, 
First Division N. G. of Pa., 

Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1872. 
General Orders No. 2. 

I. In compliance with tlie requirements of General Order, No. 
4, headquarters Ist Division, National Guard of Pennsylvania, the 
Brigade will parade on Monday next, November 11, 1872. 

II. The line will be formed on Broad Street, right resting on 
Cherry Street, facing east, at 9 : 1.5 A. M. 

By command of Brigadier General Hopmann. 

Galloway C. Morris, 
Ass't Adj't Gen'l. 
Appended will be found the special order for the firing detail : 
General Orders No. 6. 

The General commanding having been directed to detail a com- 
pany to act as a firing party at the funeral of Major General 
Meade, United States Army, Captain Ryan 's Company A (State 
Fencibles), 4th Regiment Infantry, is detailed for that duty. The 
Company Commander will report in person to the Assistant Adju- 
tant General at the headquarters of the division for special instruc- 
tions. 

By command of Brigadier General Hofmann. 

William A, Hoffman, 
Aide de Camp. 

At a meeting of the company on Thursday evening, the following 
resolutions were unanimously adopted: 

Armory State Fencibles, 
November 7, 1872. 
Eesolved, That on the death of Major General George G. Meade, 
the City, State and Nation have to mourn the loss of an accom- 
plished officer, a brave soldier and a true man, whose public serv- 
ices and private worth commended him to the esteem, love and re- 
spect of all good citizens. A long career in the armies of the Union 
attest his skill as a commander, and his devotion as a patriot, 
and marked him second to none in the service. 

Resolved, That we tender our respectful condolence to the fam- 
ily of the deceased in their bereavement, and unite with our fellow 
citizens in the tribute of respect, deservedly paid to the memory 
of a gallant, but modest soldier and a kind-hearted gentleman. 

CoL. James Page, 
JosiAH ToRR, President. 

Secretary. 



172 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1872 

Captain Ryan received the following communication: 

Dear Captain: 

Orders being prepared will do away with the necessity of send- 
ing a firing party to the grave. Will you please so communicate 
to Generals Prevost and Hofmann, and oblige 

Yours truly, 

R. M. Drum. 

The following is from the Sunday Mercury, November 17, 1872: 

The Fencibles, under Captain Ryan, made quite a hit on Monday 
last. They marched and looked magnificent. They had out 68 
muskets and two officers. The Old Guard, which headed them, was 
under the command of Col. James Page. They numbered all told, 
about 82 in line. Col. Page is still a very active man, and he was 
readily recognized by many of our citizens as he marched at the 
head of this old organized company. 

On Thursday evening the Captain had forty-nine muskets on 
drill, and after the manual and marching had been gone over, he 
gave the boys a rest for a few minutes. Upon the word ' ' Fall 
in!" being given, the line was soon formed, and those present had 
the pleasure of witnessing the bayonet exercises performed by the 
Fencibles. When taken in consideration that a number of those 
on drill were new members, the exercise was executed admirably, 
and the precision with which every movement was done was such 
that none who witnessed it could fail to say, "Well done, thou 
good and faithful servant. ' ' 

The Fencibles have possession of another one of the rooms in 
the Armory, and are fitting it up for their armor room. The 
room they now occupy will be furnished and kept as a reception 
apartment. 

At a later date the Mercury said: 

The Military. — On Friday evening last, the ' ' old members ' ' 
and friends of the State Fencibles gave a complimentary dinner, 
at Sansom Street Hall, to Capt. James Page, that day being the 
anniversary of the company's return from Camp DuPont in 1814. 
The entertainment was a very fine one, and the reunion one that 
will not soon be forgotten. 

There were a large number of old members present, some of 
them veterans who only seemed capable of shouldering their 
crutches and showing how fields were won. Among the invited 
guests were Com. Charles Stewart, Senior Flag Officer of the U. S. 
Navy; Maj. Gen. Robert Patterson, Col. W. D. Lewis, Rev. Dr. 
Ducaehet and others. 



1872 KEUNION OF SURVIVORS OF CAMP DU PONT 173 

Col. Samuel V. Hagner presided, and over two hundred persons 
were seated around the tables, among whom we noticed a number 
of our oldest and most influential citizens. The room was decora- 
ted in a most patriotic and approprate manner. Upon the south 
wall were the names of the original members of the company, and 
on the north wall was the inscription : 

December 2nd, 1814. 

The return to the City of Philadelphia of 

Gen. Thos. Cadivalader's 

Advanced Light Brigade, 3,504 Volunteers. 

The Surviving Companies, 
The First City Troop and State Fencibles. 

On the north side of the hall numerous flags were gracefully 
suspended, and over them two large stars, formed by gas jets 
and the letters "S. F." ' 

Beneath was the following: 

Surviving Members of the State Fencibles Who Were at 
Camp DuPont, 1814. 

J. R. IngersoU, Francis R. Wharton, 

Peter A. Browne, Hartman Kuhn, 

James J. Barclay, Henry J. Williams, 

Chas. Sidney Coxe, .John J. Breban, 

P. F. Fontanges, *John R. Neff, 
*J. M. Chapron, Samuel Grice, 

*W. J. Duane, *john Cox, 

D. R. Sergeant, *Franklin Bache, 

John T. Sullivan, Edward Goodwin, 

Wm. Pinchin, Charles V. Hagner, 

Thomas Altemus, Gabriel Kern, Jr., 

Henry C. Carey, james Page, 

Robert H. Small. 

The Simday Dawn, December 8th, 1872, said of a later occasion: 
The Braves on the Tip Toe. 

The famous company of "State Fencibles," commanded by 
the very efficient, gallant, meritorious Captain Ryan, distinguished 
themselves last Tuesday evening by entertaining their almost num- 



l>'eI!'Z ITtl TellJ^er'^^o^ri'olX.^Z Ul^""' -^-ization of the State Fencl- 



174 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1872 

berless friends, at the ' ' National Guards ' Hall ' ' in such a delight- 
ful manner as to elicit the cordial approbation, and choice thanks 
of their guests. The assembly became so numerous that both the 
lower and upper saloons of that vast edifice could scarcely hold 
the visitors, and afford sufficient room for the dancers. The 
brilliant military uniforms in unison with the dazzling attire of the 
ladies, created a charming coup d' oeil, not soon to be forgotten. 
The successive arrival of ' ' Visiting Companies, ' ' headed by bands 
of music, gave life to the beautiful scene. McClurg's orchestras, 
two of the best in this city, added enchantment to the tout en- 
semhle. Discipline was rigorously maintained, and nothing suf- 
fered to mar the pleasure of a glorious reunion. The "Grand 
Promenade, ' ' after the formal reception of the military author- 
ities, opened the ball, and was nobly conducted by the gallant, 
handsome young Master of Ceremonies, Captain Deviney, and 
Miss Senior, an amiable, modest, pretty brunette, and graceful 
dancer, wearing a beautiful black Lyon's silk, en train. The 
dancing seemed to be most heartily enjoyed, and it appeared evi- 
dent that the invisible Cupid extended his magic powers over the 
terpsichoreans. The refreshments from the establishment of H. 
C. Cipp and Bro., proved of the most desirable quality. In short, 
success was complete in many respects. All honor and praise to 
the "State Fencibles." 

Day-light had forced in its appearance before the most ardent 
lovers of the dance could be persuaded to retire for home. 

Long live the Fencibles! 

The following was an answer to a resolution passed by the Com- 
pany to attend the inauguration of Governor Hartranft : 

Auditor General's Office, 
Harrisburg, Pa. 
Capt. John W. Ryan, 

State Fencibles. 
Bear Captain: 

Your letter of Nov. 15th, inf oi'ming me of a resolution that had 
been adopted by your Corps tendering their services as a body- 
guard on the occasion of my inauguration as Governor has been 
received. 

In reply please state to the members of your organization that 
I shall be much delighted to see them at that time, and will en- 
deavor to have them assigned to the best position in the line I can. 
The whole matter of the arrangements for the inaugural cere- 
monies will be managed by the joint committee of the legislature. 

I am very respectfully, 

J. F. Hartranft. 



1872 MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATE PRESENTED ly;, 

December 26th, this was the last ceremony of a very active year, 
the occasion was the presentation of a certificate of Honorary mem- 
bership to the Hon. "William D. Kelley,* an old member of the 
Fencibles, and a member of Congress from the 4th District; one 
of the best representatives from the State of Pennsylvania, to 
look after its interests in the protection of its iron industry in the 
National Councils, which gave him the sobriquet, all over the coun- 
try of "Pig Iron Kelley." He served in the Corps from 1829 to 
1834, when he removed to Boston. He was a lawyer by profession 
and was at one time Judge of one of the courts of Philadelphia. 
He was an eloquent speaker and had a remarkable memory, his voice 
could be heard in an uproar, and although years had passed since 
his retirement from active membership in the Corps, he never for- 
got them and on many occasions they were honored with his pres- 
ence. He was always ready to use his influence for the benefit of 
the Corps. On this evening a heavy snowstorm prevailed, and 
travel was nearly suspended, but the Old Veteran reported present. 
After a short drill the presentation was made by Colonel Page, and 
received by the "Judge." The Company then adjourned to the 
house of MeCuen and Donaldson, where a collation was prepared, 
and there followed a feast of reason and flow of soul. At 12 o'clock 
the Company adjourned and made their way homeward through 
the heavy snow. 

The Mercwy, December 29th, 1872, said of this occasion : 

On Thursday evening the Fencibles assembled to perform a 
pleasing task, as well as to have an excellent uniform drill. 
Captain Ryan formed his company in the Armory drill-room at 
8 'clock, and immediately commenced manoeuvring his men in 
elegant style; the marching was executed with proper precaution, 
and the manual was gone through with that precision that stamps 
the Fencibles' reputation such as can't be beat. The fix and 
unfix bayonet portion of the manual was executed in such a pre- 
cise manner as to draw forth from those present witnessing the 
drill, laud applause. 

The company was finally brought to a front, and a ' ' parade 
rest ' ' ordered. Col. James Page now came forward, accompanied 
by Judge William D. Kelley, the Colonel having in his hand an 
elegantly framed certificate of honorary membership of the State 
Fencibles, and politely doffing his hat, he addressed the Judge 
in his usual good-natured style of eloquence. He said that it was 

♦See Appendix. 



176 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLE8 1873 

a great pleasure and a duty he was about to perform, — to present 
William D. Kelley, one of their old and valuable members, with a 
token of appreciation for the interest he had taken in having the 
Fencibles donated the cannon and ball by the Government to be 
moulded into a suitable monument to be erected to the memory of 
those who have fallen in the defense of their country in helping 
preserve the Union — that Union which General Jackson said: 
' ' By the eternal, the Union must and shall be preserved. ' ' He 
then alluded to many pleasant days that the Judge and others had 
passed in their early years, when mingling together as the State 
Fencibles. He then handed over the gift. 

Judge Kelley received the certificate, and in a very slow and 
distinct voice responded to the Colonel's speech. He, in receiving 
the same, entered into remarks that were listened to with great 
interest. He referred to his connection with the Fencibles as far 
back as forty years. In alluding to the donation of cannon, &c., 
he said it was but a trifling matter when one looks into the cause 
which prompted the gift. He spoke of the death of Colonel Hes- 
ser, who was connected with the Fencibles, and his noble conduct 
in the late war, where he met his death. The Judge spoke in a 
brief manner and to the point, and finished by saying that the 
certificate just presented should be treasured by him as long 
as he lived, and he would hand it down to his descendants, so that 
when he passed from this earth they would keep it in remem- 
brance, as he hoped the Fencibles would continue long after he 
was laid under the sod. 

This ended the presentation and then Captain Ryan ordered a 
' ' present arms, ' ' and he then welcomed Judge Kelley as a member 
of the State Fencibles. They then immediately broke ranks. 

At the beginning of year 1873, the officers of the Corps were 
Capt. John W. Ryan, Lieutenants Smith and Packer. 

The first parade of the year occurred on January 20th, the occa- 
sion being the trip to Harrisburg, to attend the inauguration of 
John F. Hartranft as Governor. The Corps assembled at the 
Armory at 7 A. M., and previous to their departure Captain Ryan 
was presented with a gold watch and chain, as a token of the es- 
teem of the members of the Corps. The Corps was accompanied by 
McClurg's Band and Honorary staff, and an Honorary committee 
of citizens. The train stopped at Bridgeport, opposite Norristown, 
where the Fencibles detrained and escorted the newly elected Gov- 
ernor to the train. Upon arriving at Harrisburg, the Fencibles, and 
Norristown Fire Co. escorted him to his residence. They then 
marched to the Jones Hotel, where quarters had been secured. 
After a short rest they assembled and marched to the depot, where 



lS7n INAUGURATION OF GOVERNOR HARTRANFT 177 

they received the Cameron, Hartranft and Eagle Clubs, and escort- 
ed them to their quarters. The Corps was then dismissed for the 
day. 

On the following day, the 21st, the weather was unfavorable but 
the display was very fine. After the ceremonies were over the 
parade was dismissed, and the Corps sat down to dinner. Late 
in the afternoon they entrained for home, arriving without any 
mishap, but very tired. 

The Harrisburg Journal, January 21st, 1873, said: 

Notwithstanding the wintry aspect of the weather yesterday, 
there was a large crowd at the depot awaiting the arrival of the 
special train from Philadelphia, which arrived here about 2 P. >[., 
and consisted of eight cars, drawn by engine No. 254, handsomely 
decorated with flags. On this train were two fire companies and 
one military company from Norristown, and a delegation of citi- 
zens, in company with Gen. John F. Hartranft, the Governor-elect. 
The Marine Band, State Fencibles, McClurg's City Band and 
Frankford Band of Philadelphia, were also on this train. The 
procession formed at the depot, in the following order: 

A citizen of Harrisburg and a Pioneer of the State Fencibles 
led the procession. 

State Fencibles Drum Corps — 10 members. 

State Fencibles Band — 19 members. 

State Fencibles, Philadelphia, Capt. John W. Ryan — 65 mem- 
bers. (The Fencibles are known as the "crack" military or- 
ganization of the State.) 

Delegation of citizens of Philadelphia. 

Drum Corps of Norris City Guards. 

Norris City Guards, of Norristown, General Hartranft 's Old 
Company — Capt. Henry Jacobs — 48 members. 

United States Marine Band, Prof. Henry Friese, leader — 26 
members. 

Delegation of citizens of Norristown. 

Neighbors and personal friends of General Hartranft. 

Three carriages containing Governor-elect and other eminent 
gentlemen. 

Delegation of Montgomery Steam Fire Company — Escort to 
General Hartranft. Marshalled by John Slingliuff, Esq., and as- 
sistant — 62 members. This company wore a beautiful blue cloth 
coat and pants, a handsome cap of the navy pattern, with the 
letter " M " in front and each had an elegant purple silk badge 
on the left breast appropriately inscribed. 

12 



178 <^NE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

Erankford Silver Cornet Band — 16 members, Prof. James But- 
terworth, leader. 

Humane Fire Company of Norristown — 52 members. 

McClurg's Band of Philadelphia — 19 members, Prof. Benjamin 
K. McClurg, leader. 

Hope Fire Company of Harrisburg — 40 members, drawing the 
splendid hose carriage of the Humane Company, in the rear of the 
procession. 

The Inquirer, January 22nd, 1873, said of the occasion : 

The principal feature of the procession was the military, who 
were out in large numbers — fully twenty-five hundred men forming 
the line. The march was by column, and all moved with com- 
mendable precision and regularity. The marching of the State 
Fencibles and First and Second Regiments, from your City, was 
particularly admired, while the various movements executed by the 
Fencibles, in changing from column to flank, reducing front and 
wheeling, excited emconiums from all who witnessed them. The 
colored regiments turned out with full ranks, and deserve credit 
for their soldierly appearance and behavior. 

The Republic, February 16th, 1873, referring to the Inaugura- 
tion of President Grant, said : 

' ' The 4th of March is fast approaching and the talk of those 
who intend to participate in the inauguration of the President is 
becoming more of an every-day topic. The State Fencibles and 
Washington Grays will be the only responsible military organiza- 
tions to go as a body to Washington from this city. * * * 

The State Fencibles will take at least fifty uniformed men with 
them to Washington, besides a very extensive honorary committee 
The old Guard will also appear in good style. * * * 

Later Captain Ryan published the following : 

Philadelphia, Feb. 24th, 1873. 
Sir: 

Please take notice that the following is the style of dress 
adopted by the Honorary Committee of the "State Fencibles" for 
their trip to Washington March 3d and 4th next. Black (or dark) 
coat and pants, high silk hat, white vest, white gloves and black 
(or dark) overcoat. 
The above must be strictly complied with. 

The time for assembling at the City Armory, Broad Street 
below Race, on Monday, March 3d, will appear in Orders in the 
Military Columns of the Sunday Mercury and Eepublic of Sunday, 
March 2d. 

By order of J. W. Ryan, 

Captain State Fencibles. 



1873 ORDERS— INAUGURATION PRESIDENT GRANT 179 

Armory State Fexcibles. 

March 1st, 1873. 
The following is ordered for the government of the Corps 
(and Honorary Committee), on their trip to Washington, on the 
3d and 4th inst. : 

Assemble at the Armory, Broad and Race Streets, on Mon- 
day, 3d inst., at 11 o'clock, and proceed to the Baltimore Depot 
in the following order: 

1st. Citizens Committee, under the command of W. Russell 
Smith, Esq. 

2d. Drum Corps, with knapsacks packed. 
3d. McClurg's Liberty Cornet Band. 

4th. "Old Guard" of the Corps, under the command of Col. 
James Page. 

5th. The Corps with knapsacks packed. On arrival in Baltimore, 
the Corps will be received by the Monumental Club of that city, 
and escorted to the Carrollton House, after which they will be 
reviewed by the city authorities and have dress parade on Monu- 
mental Square. Supper at 6 : 30 o 'clock and at 9 o 'clock in the 
evening, they will assemble to receive the Monumental Club at Car- 
rollton House. Breakfast at 6.30 A. M. on the 4th inst., and 
afterwards they will march to the Baltimore & Ohio Depot, and 
take the 8 o 'clock train for Washington. On arrival at the Capital 
they will be received by the Washington Light Infantry, and es- 
corted to their Armory, when arms will be stacked, and which will 
be the Headquarters of the Corps while in Washington. 

On the 4th inst., after the Inaugural Ceremonies are over, it is 
the intention of the Commanding Officer to have the Corps par- 
ticipate in any friendly drill which may be arranged by the Com- 
mittee on Inauguration Ceremonies. 

At 5: 30 o'clock P. M. the Corps will take the train from Wash- 
ington to Baltimore, supper at the Carrollton House, after which 
they will return to Philadelphia. 

While on the street, in the cars, or at the hotel, the Citizens 
Committee, as well as the uniformed men, are expected to so de- 
port themselves as to do honor to the occasion and reflect credit 
on themselves as gentlemen. 

By order of John W. Kyan, 

Captain. 

On March 3rd, the Corps assembled at the Armory for the purpose 
of attending the inauguration of President-Elect U. S. Grant. The 
line formed in the following order: Honorary Committee of 60 
Citizens; B. McClurg's Liberty Cornet Band, 20; Drum Major De 
Wald and Drum Corps, 11; Old Guard, Colonel Page commanding, 
12; Corps of State Fencibles, Captain Ryan and Lieutenants Me- 



180 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

Cuen and Packer, 62 Rifles and 3 Color Bearers. They presented a 
fine appearance as they marched with their accustomed precision to 
the Baltimore Depot, and entrained for Baltimore, where they were 
to be the guests of the Monumental Club. 

Upon arriving in Baltimore they were escorted to the Carrollton 
House by the club. After removing knapsacks, the Corps was es- 
corted by the club to the Mayor's office and introduced to that offi- 
cial. The Corps, by request, gave an exhibition drill. The weather 
was getting intensely cold and windy, and they returned to the 
hotel for supper. At 9 o'clock in the evening the club made its 
appearance and invited the Corps and their friends to the spacious 
dining room where champagne was served in great quantities, many 
speeches were made and a good time kept up until a late hour, when 
all adjourned promising to meet soon again. 

On the morning of the 4th, the Corps marched to the Washington 
Depot to take the train f^r that City. The morning was very 
cold and a fierce gale was blowing. The travel on the railroad was 
so congested that their progress was slow. There were no cars for 
the Corps, who were compelled to wait, in the cold, until some re- 
turned from Washington. 

At 10.30, some cars were moved into the depot and were promptly 
seized. The men, nearly frozen, entered them to get some protec- 
tion from the cold blast. After a half hour's delay, they started for 
their destination. Arriving too late for the Inaugural Ceremonies, 
the Fencibles marched down Pennsylvania Avenue to the Armory 
of the Washington Light Infantry, where the men were thawed out. 
The tracks being so congested they were compelled to detrain near- 
ly a mile from the City. 

On the march down Pennsylvania Avenue, in passing one of the 
hotels, the headquarters of the Albany Burgess Corps, who attracted 
by the manual the Fencibles were executing for the purpose of keep- 
ing the hands warm, also by the elegant appearance of the Corps 
as it marched along, made inquiry as to what organization it was. 
Upon learning that it was the Fencibles, they at once requested the 
Corps to stop at the Armory. There Colonel Page and some of the 
Old Guard met many old friends they had not seen since years be- 
fore, when the two organizations were interchanging visits. 

Upon learning of the approach of the parade on its return from 
the Capitol to the Executive Mansion, the Corps assembled and 
marched up the avenue and fell into its position in line. On the 



1873 A^ISIT TO BALTIMORE AND WASHINGTON ISl 

route they were joined by an old fellow-member, the Hon. Win. D. 
Kelley, who took his place in the Old Guard, and took part in the 
review. After tlie parade, the Corps stopped in the Light Infantry's 
Armory for two hours, and then fell in line to take the train for 
Baltimore, where they arrived early in the evening and niarehed to 
the Carrollton House for supper. While at supper, the Corps con- 
cluded to change their plans and stop over for the night, and leave 
early the next morning for home. While stopping at the Carroll- 
ton the Old Guard held their monthly meeting, and elected the pro- 
prietor an Honorary member, for his kindness and attention to 
the Corps. 

The Baltimore American and Commercial Advertiser of March 
3rd, 1873, said: 

Philadelphia's military pride, the crack organization known 
as the State Fencibles, Captain Eyan, accompanied by McClurg's 
Military Band and Drum Corps, and the ' ' Old Guard ' ' number- 
ing twenty members, in charge of Colonel Page, arrived at Presi- 
dent Street Depot at five o'clock, and were met there by the 
Monumental Club of this city, headed by the Fifth Regiment 
Band. The Fencibles and the Old Guard were escorted to their 
headquarters at the Carrollton. After they had shaken the dust 
of travel from their uniforms and refreshed the inner man, the 
Fencibles were ordered to "fall in" and in a few moments the 
organization was in Monument Square, where they delighted thou- 
sands of spectators vrith a specimen of military manoeuvres sel- 
dom excelled, after which they returned to headquarters. 

The Baltimore Sun, March 4th, 1873, said: 

The Pennsylvania State Fencibles, Capt. John W. Ryan, ar- 
rived according to the programme, about 4 o'clock P. M., to the 
number of sixty-three men, with a band of thirty pieces and a 
drum corps of twenty men. Accompanying them were a large 
delegation of the ' ' Old Guard, ' ' with Colonel Page at their head, 
and about fifty prominent gentlemen of Philadelphia ; also a del- 
egation in citizens dress, of about thirty members of the ' ' Entre 
Nous" Club, of Philadelphia. In courtesy to the visitors, the 
Monumental Club, of Baltimore, a social organization recently es- 
tablished, provided an escort of sixty gentlemen, with the Fifth 
Regiment Band, and marched from the club rooms, Charles and 
Saratoga Streets, to the Philadelphia depot, where the visitors 
were received by President J. S. Heisler, Marshall E. J. Chaisty, 
Maj. Harry Hart, Mr. S. E. Witters, and a committee of recep- 
tion of the Monumentals. 



182 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

After the welcome the line was formed, with a platoon of police 
in advance, next the Fifth Regiment Band, the Monumental Club, 
the Entre Nous Club of Philadelphia, with guests, the drum corps 
and band of the Fencibles, the Old Guard, headed by Colonel 
Page, and the company of the Fencibles, under Captain John W. 
Ryan. The escort were accompanied on the sidewalks, to the 
depot by a large crowd of people, and on the return march, through 
High, Baltimore, and Light Streets, to the Carrollton Hotel, their 
quarters, the concourse of spectators was very large and very en- 
thusiastic. The neat and showy uniforms of blue, great bear- 
skin shakos and excellent marching elicited a great deal of favor- 
able comment. 

Having reached Light Street, in front of the Carrollton Hotel, 
the Monumental Club formed in line, and with a marching salute, 
received the visitors, who passed into the building, and having dis- 
posed of their ponderous shakos and accoutrements, soon reap- 
peared with a fatigue cap and in lighter uniform. They were then 
escorted to Monument Square for an exhibition drill, where was as- 
sembled a great concourse of people. After marching around the 
monument, the company made a dress line immediately in front of 
the Mayor's office, upon the steps of which was his lionor. Mayor 
Vansant. Captain Ryan here entertained the people with an ex- 
hibition drill, lasting about thirty minutes, in which the ' ' order 
arms ' ' the ' ' right to left shoulder shift, ' ' and the ' ' fix and un- 
fix bayonet," movements elicited the heartiest applause. The 
movements being more like machinery in precision than like a body 
of men. 

The drill over, with its rounds of applause, Mayor Vansant de- 
cended to the square, and having been introduced to the ' ' Old 
Guards' ' and the ' ' Young Commander, ' ' Captain Ryan, spoke 
briefly in welcome. He said that although the broad Susquehanna 
and the Schuylkill rolled between the two cities here represented, 
there was an unanimity of sympathy between the two peoples that 
made us as one, united by common interests. He honored Phila- 
delphia for many reasons; first, because of the enlightenment, in- 
telligence and whole-souled spirit of her people, and he could 
not but remember that in that city first rang out the peals of 
liberty — that liberty we had all enjoyed and so much loved. Her 
people were dear to us as well as near to us, and he could not but 
feel disposed to give a hearty welcome to the visitors before him. 
In conclusion he tendered to the visitors the ' ' freedom of Balti- 
more, " and complimented them upon their soldierly appearance 
and wonderful military skill in drill. 

The Philadelphia Age of March 6th, 1873, said : 

The Fencibles attracted great attention as they marched 
? down Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C, and they were 



1873 ALBANY BURGESS CORPS— MILITARY ACT lg3 

loudly applauded by the thousands of spectators who lined tlie 
sidewalks. » * * 

After the procession was over the Feucibles returned to the 
Armory, where they gave an exhibition drill and were afterwards 
the recipients of attention at the hands of the members of the 
Washington Light Infantry. 

On March the 7th, learning that the Albany Burgess Corps had 
stopped in the City on their return from Washington, a number of 
the ofifieers of the Corps and members of the Old Guard called on 
them to exchange civilities, and take them in charge during their 
stay. They were taken to the rooms of the "Entre Nous Club," in 
the afternoon and entertained. In the evening the Corps gave 
an exhibition drill, after which they divided into small parties 
for the purpose of inspecting the town, and counting the elephants, 
also taking an occasional glass of soda water. On the next morning, 
the Corps assembled and with McClurg's Band, marched to the Con- 
tinental Hotel, the headquarters of the A. B. C, to escort them to 
the depot on their return home. Upon arriving at the depot the 
Corps gave them their well-known rocket "1. 2. 3. — A. B. C. — Swish 
— Boom — Ah." They were then whirled away toward their homes. 

On April 15th, Governor Hartranft signed the supplement to the 
Act of 1864, an Act for the organization, discipline, and regulation, 
of the Militia of Pennsylvania, stating, inter alia — 

Militia Act. 

A further supplement to the act of fourth of May, one thousand 
eight hundred and sixty-four, entitled "An act for the organiza- 
tion, discipline and regulation of the Militia of the Common- 
wealth of Pennsylvania. 

Section 1. Be it enacted, &c., that in time of peace the Na- 
tional Guard shall comprise and aggregate not exceeding ten thou- 
sand oflBcers, non-commissioned officers, musicians and privates, 
and shall consist of two hundred companies fully armed, uniformed 
and equipped, to be distributed among the, several miliary divisions 
of the State, according to the number of its taxable population ; 
but the Commander-in-Chief shall have power, in case of war, in- 
surrection, invasion or imminent danger thereof, to increase the 
force beyond the said ten thousand, and organize the same as the 

exigencies of the service may require. 

*♦*»*##*« 

Section 8. Nothing herein contained shall be construed as affect- 
ing the right of the First Troop, Philadelphia City Cavalry; In- 
fantry Corps of State Fencibles, Washington Infantry of Pitts- 



184 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

burgh, the Artillery Corps of Washington Grays, the Infantry 
Corps of National Guard of Philadelphia, the Weccacoe Legion of 
Philadelphia, National Grays of Philadelphia, the Ringgold Artil- 
lery of Reading, and the Duquesne Grays of Pittsburgh, the City 
Grays of Harrisburg, the Titusville Citizens' Corps, to keep and 
maintain their respective organizations with their original vested 
rights, privileges and immunities, and shall be deemed legal or- 
ganizations in addition to the number of companies provided for in 
the first section of this act. * * ^ * * * 

Approved the fifteenth day of April, A, D. one thousand eight 
hundred and seventy-three. 

J. F. Hartranft. 

From the Baltimore Gazette, April 28th, 1873 : 

Saturday afternoon Capt. John W. Ryan, commanding the State 
Fencibles of Philadelphia, accompanied by Messrs. Thomson, Ber- 
ger, Torr and Chew, of his Company, reached Baltimore as bearers 
of a testimonial to Col. R. B. Coleman, of the Carrollton, in the 
form of the following: 

' ' The Infantry Corps of State Fencibles, Capt. John W. Ryan, 
commanding, of the City of Philadelphia, State of Pennsylvania, 
to Colonel R. B. Coleman, proprietor of the Carrollton House, 
City of Baltimore, Md., in testimony of the high appreciation in 
which he is held by every member thereof, for his uniform kind- 
ness and untiring exertions in their behalf on their late visit to 
Baltimore, and while stopping at his admirably managed hotel, 
on the nights of the 3d and 4th of March, 1873. They will ever 
bear in mind his generous and amiable qualities, while their 
hearts will throb with gratitude at the recollection of his friendly 
services, regarding as the event of their lives the kind fortune 
which brought them in close companionshij) with so liberal a host 
and so good a man. Signed, James Page, President ; T. Lowry 
Thomson, Assistant Secretary; Charles Berger, Corporal; W. S. 
Crawford, Quartermaster Sergeant; Josiah Torr, Secretary; John 
W. Ryan, Captain ; and Charles A. Abel, First Sergeant. ' ' 

The above was beautifully executed with the pen, and was en- 
closed in a handsome and massive frame, which measured about 
30 by 24 inches. After an elegant dinner, the presentation took 
place in the ladies' drawing-room, a large number of the guests of 
the hotel being present. Captain Ryan gracefully informed Col- 
onel Coleman of the object of the visit, and delivered to him the 
testimonial, and Colonel Coleman appropriately expressed his grat- 
ification. The whole affair was most agreeable. Saturday evening 
Captain Ryan and his party visited the Monumental Club, and re- 
turned to Philadelphia last night. 



CHAPTER XII. 

1873—1875. 

VISIT OF WASHINGTON LIGHT INFANTRY — THE 60tH ANNIVERSARY — 
CAMP AT ATLANTIC CITY — ORDERS — PRESENTATION OF MARQUEE FLAG 
ERIE RAILROAD RIOTS — PRESENTATION OF PIANO BY LADIES ' AUXIL- 
IARY — BOSTON FUSILEERS — CAMP AT EDGELY — VISIT OF CLEVELAND 
FIRE COMPANY — EXHIBITION DRILL AT WALNUT STREET THEATRE — 
DEATH OF COL. JOHN THORNLEY — DEATH OF COL. JAMES PAGE — COL- 
LECTION OF MILITARY LIBRARY— RESOLUTIONS— PRESENTATION OF 
CHAMPIONSHIP FLAG — CENTENNIAL OF BUNKER HILL — THE 99tH 
ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE. 

On the evening of May 13th, the Company gave an exhibition 
drill which was witnessed by the Washington Light Infantry, of 
Washington, who had stopped in the city on their way home. They 
were entertained by the officers and members of the Fencibles 
after the drill, and returned home early the next morning. 

Headquarters "Old Guard" State Fencibles, 

April 29, 1873. 
' ' Circular. ' ' 

The ' ' Old Guard, ' ' in making arrangements for a proper cele- 
bration of the 60th Anniversary of the State Fencibles at the 
Academy of Music, Broad Street, on the evening of the 26th day 
of May next, cordially invite the co-operation of the surviving 
members of Camp Dupont, the old members of the Corps, its staff 
and Honorary members, the Entre Nous Club, and all other 
friends, to make the occasion a gratifying success. 

Col. James Page, 
Commander 0. G. 
Col. Frank Vallee, 
Adj't 0. G. 

May 26th, being the 60th anniversary, the Company assembled in 
the afternoon and made a street parade, and returning to the Ar- 
mory early in the afternoon were dismissed to meet at the Academy 
of Music at 7.30 in the evening, where an exhibition drill was given. 

185 



186 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

During the evening, an address was delivered by Col. James Page. 
He gave a short history of the Corps from its first organization. 
After the address the Old Guard presented the Corps with the 
original banner carried by them in 1814. This banner was present- 
ed to the Corps in 1814, and after the reorganization, Sept. 29th, 
1819, was presented by the retiring members to their successors, 
who handed it over to their successors, and which is still treasured 
and cared for, and will be, it is hoped, for years to come.* After 
the presentation, the drill was executed and loudly applauded. The 
ceremonies of the evening were ended with a beautiful rendition of 
the Star Spangled Banner, by Caroline Richings Bernard, an old 
Philadelphia favorite, and an admirer of the Fencibles. 

At this celebration Colonel Page said, inter alia, in speaking of 
of the Fencibles during the Civil War : 

' ' Nearly all the officers and men re-entered the service for three 
years, among them Captain Hesser, who was soon promoted to the 
Lieutenant-Colonelcy of the Seventy-second Regiment, Philadel- 
phia Fire Zouaves, and who was present at and took part in some 
thirteen of the severest battles fought in the campaign, and finally 
fell in a skirmish at Robinson 's Tavern on November 27, 1863, 
in Virginia, dying as an officer should die, leading his men. 

He came to see me a few hours before he left the city for the 
last time, telling me that his term of service would be out in a 
few days. I remarked that having faithfully and honorably dis- 
charged his duty for so long a time, it was scarcely worth while for 
him to return for the remnant that was left, and he was entitled 
to rest. His reply was, ' ' Colonel, I cannot retire from my com- 
mand while the enemy is in its front. ' ' It was a truth spoken by a 
soldier, and that truth he sealed with his blood. His orphan son 
and daughter are with us to-night, and I pay this sincere tribute 
to his memory, for a braver and better soldier never fell in bat- 
tle. ' ' 

The following letters were received after the celebration of the 
Anniversary : 

Headquarters 2d Brigade, 1st Division, N. G. P. 

Philadelphia, May 27th, 1873. 
My Dear Sir: 

Permit me to thank you for the pleasure and the gratification I 
experienced by attending the celebration of the Sixtieth Anniver- 
sary of the Infantry Corps of State Fencibles, at the Academy of 
Music, last evening. 

•See page 268. 



1873 LETTERS— NEWSPAPER CRITICISM 

As the Commanding Officer of the Brigade to which the Corps 
is attached, I desire to place upon the records of their "Old 
Guard" my opinion of the high state of discipline, drill and sol- 
dierly bearing of the members of the Corps, not only on this 
occasion, but on every occasion when I have had an opi)ortunity 
of judging of their merits. I am free to give it as my opinion, 
that, the Corps has attained a degree of proficiency under its pres- 
ent commanding officer, Captain John W. Ryan, as regards its pre- 
cision in drill, in discipline and in soldierly deportment that has 
seldom, if ever, been equalled, and surely never surpassed by any 
military organization, and it is to me, sir, a no less gratification 
that the deportment of the members of the Corps, in the walks of 
civil life is a theme that, with those who have ample opportunity to 
form a just opinion that evokes universal commendation. 

You will pardon the freedom with which I have spoken of your 
successor, the results of his efforts, I am sure, are to no one 
more gratifying than they are to yourself. With my best wishes 
for the continued prosperity of the Corps, and evoking for it the 
continued fraternal care and smypathy of the members of iU 
"Old Guard." 

I am sir, 

Very truly yours, 

J. W. HOFMANN, 



187 



To Col. James Page, 

Commanding the Old Guard State Fencibles. 



Brig. Gen'l. 



May 28, 1873. 



My Bear Colonel: 

Please accept from our ladies and myself our thanks, to your- 
self and the gentlemen of the Corps whose performances so ad- 
mirably executed, the arrangements so skillfully contrived. The 
exhibition was one of the most interesting and beautiful I have 
ever witnessed, and it can not be but that those who were the 
actors on the occasion participated in the pleasure given to the 
spectators, and I wish them all success in these mimic exercises, 
hoping they may never have occasion to apply them in the stem 
reality, against which I regard their organization as prevential as 
well as a defence. 

Yours very truly, 

Joseph H. Dulles. 
The Elizabeth Monitor (Elizabeth, N. J.), May 28th, 1873, said 

The State Fencibles, of Philadelphia, celebrated their sixtieth 
anniversary by a parade on Tuesday afternoon, and by an exhibi- 
tion drill and concert at the Academy of Music in the evening. 
Captain John W. Ryan, the commander, has few equals, and to his 
talents does Philadelphia boast the best drilled company in Araer- 



1 — Laffayette Medal. Presented to the Command by the Guard 
Laffayette of Philadelphia, 1856, for the many cour- 
tesies extended to them by the Fencibles, after the 
destruction of the Guard Laffayette 's Armoiy by 
fire. 

2 — Andrew Jackson Medal with a lock of his hair enclosed. Pre- 
sented to the Command by Captain James Page, 
1846, who was a personal friend of Andrew Jackson. 

3 — Wray Medal. Presented to the Command by Jacob Wray in 
1854. Wray was a member of the Fencibles and left 
for California in 1850. This medal was made from 
the first gold he found in California soil. 

4 — Washington Medal. Presented to the Command by two dis- 
tinguished citizens, T. E. Barrett and T. F. Good- 
win, January 1st, 1846. 

5 — Pearl Medal. Presented to the Command by Captain .James 
Page, 1851, to be worn by the best rifle shot. 

6 — Staff Medal. Presented to the Command by the Honorary 
Staff, 1859. 

7 — Baugh Medal. Presented to the Command by Captain Wm. 
Baugh, First Brigade Staff, N. G. P., 1874, for su- 
periority in marksmanship. 

8 — Page Medal. Presented to Captain James Page by the mem- 
bers of the State Fencibles in 1851, and after his 
death to be worn by the oldest member in point 
of service. This medal is now worn by Captain 
Edw. E. Packer, who enlisted in 1853 and has 
served continuously. 

9 — Maltese Cross. Presented to the Command by the Old Guard 
at the date of its organization. This being the 
official Old Guard Medal. 

10— Brazier Medal. Presented to the Command by Col. Brazier, a 
Frenchman, who was an admirer of the Fencibles, 
1846. 

11 — Marston Medal. Presented to the Command by Lieut. 
Thomas H. Marston, 1854. For Company having 
the highest' average for marksmanship. 

188 




SOME OF OUR MEDALS. 



1873 PRESENTATION— DRILL \S0 

The Academy building was filled with the elite of Philadelphia. 
The exercises commenced by the performance of ' ' The Fencibles 
Grand March," by Ben McClurg's Liberty Cornet Band. Follow- 
ing this was a reveille, drum and bugle call in the defense, and 
the company sang a camp chorus. After which the scenery was 
opened and displayed to the audience the whole Battalion drawn 
up in a hollow square. After performing a few evolutions, the 
company, composed of about eighty muskets, stood at a rest, while 
Colonel James Page delivered a very interesting address, con- 
sisting of a detailed history of the Fencibles. 

Hon. William D. Kelley, in a patriotic speech, then presented the 
company with a handsome blue silk banner, in behalf of tlie mem- 
bers of the ' ' Old Guard. ' ' Captain Ryan accepted the relic, and 
in a very happy speech, pledged his men to defend and preserve it. 

The remainder of the exercises consisted of company movements 
and manual of arms, loading and firing, and stacking of arms by 
the Battalion. The movements were executed with great skill and 
precision, and elicited shouts of applause from the audience. The 
exercises were interspersed with singing by the quartette of the 
Entre Nous Club, and Mrs. Caroline Richiugs Bernard. 

Among the audience were soldiers of the War of 1812, members 
of the Old Guard, members of the Bar, and many others prominent 
in military and political circles, including Governor Parker, Gen- 
eral De Hart, Colonel Drake, and Major Robins of New Jersey, 
General Cadwalader, Ex-Governor Curtin, General Lilly, General 
Patterson, Colonel Frank Patterson, Hon. John Swift, Hon. Lin 
Bartholomew, and many members of the Constitutional Conven- 
tion. 

At the conclusion of the entertainment the ' ' Star Spangled Ban- 
ner" was sung by the Entre Nous Club, accompanied by the cor- 
net band and drum corps, and in which the audience joined. 

The State Fencibles is an organization of which the people 
of Philadelphia may well feel proud. 

The people of Elizabeth will likely have an opportunity of look- 
ing upon the crack corps next fall, as they will doubtless make it 
convenient to accept Company C 's invitation to visit us. 

The newspapers of the day were not all in harmony with the 
Fencibles, as may be seen from the following which appeared in the 
Sunday Times, June 1st, 1873 : 

The drill of the State Fencibles at the Academy of Music, on 
last Monday evening, on the occasion of their sixtieth anniversary, 
was almost faultless, but Captain Ryan should discard the clap 
trap performance of the ' ' lightning drill, ' ' and by tap of the 
drum, as not orthodox. It is true these ' ' fancy movements ' ' ex- 
cite the applause of the multitude, but experienced military men 
regard them as only fitted for "showmen." The company move- 



190 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

ments, according to Upton are few in number and simple, but few 
as they are the most beautiful; those of "right front" and "left 
front into line, ' ' from a column of fours, were not even attempted. 
The bayonet exercise and manual of arms were admirably exe- 
cuted, and the men were well drilled in ' ' the position of the sol- 
dier, ' ' the most important of all but the ' ' sizing ' ' was not as well 
attended as it should have been. The speech of Colonel .James 
Page on the occasion, was one of the best efforts of his life, and 
shows that although now in his eightieth year, his mind is as 
clear and as active as ever. His review of the history of the 
Fencibles was highly interesting, and although he was never 
' ' under fire ' ' but once in his life, in the fight at St. Philip de 
Neri Church, in the riots of July, 1844, he displayed great cool- 
ness and bravery on that occasion, which his modesty prevented 
him from saying much about. The Fencibles ' ' offered their serv- 
ice" in 1846 for the Mexican War, but as there were more men 
offering than could be accepted, they were not enrolled. The gal- 
lant Page was then Collector of our Port, and in command of the 
company, but being unable to obtain leave of absence, and not 
wishing to resign his ofl[ice, he did not march to the halls of Monte- 
zumas. It may not be generally known by our young people that 
Colonel Page, who is no war rampant Eeformer, was Postmaster 
of our city for many years, besides being Collector of the Port. 
He has had a fair share of office during his lifetime. In the be- 
ginning of the Eebellion he rather sympathized with the South, but 
later we believe, he cordially supported the Government in its work 
of coercion. The "Old Guard" of the Fencibles who were present 
felt like old soldiers and may be pardoned for a little self-glorifi- 
cation over their bloodless campaign at Camp DuPont, which some 
of them will never cease to tell of, their hair-breadth escapes 
and adventures by flood and field. The Fencibles have always re- 
sponded with alacrity to the call of the authorities in time of 
riot, and it is gratifying to know that they still maintain their 
organization in the highest state of discipline. 

We quote the following from the Day of July 2nd, 1873 : 

Much complaint is made of the arrangements for the Fourth 
in respect to music. Only six bands are to be allowed to the mil- 
itary, and even these are injudiciously and unjustly divided. Why 
should not the State Fencibles — confessedly the finest and best 
drilled military company in the State, if not in the United States 
— have been allowed a part of the music? The two colored regi- 
ments, neither of which turn out more regular members than the 
Fencibles, have each a band; and some other organizations of less 
importance to the pageant of the Fourth than the State Fencibles 
are to have all the music they desire, while this company is to be 
left without any. This is offering but poor encouragement to the 



1873 INDEPENDENCE DAY— PARADE ]91 

young men composing this company to give their time drilling and 
their money to keeping up the organization ; and it is a poor way 
for the public to manifest its appreciation of their efforts and 
efficiency in mastering the manual of arms so completely as these 
men have. They are expected to appear in their full strength and 
to swelter in the July sun for hours; but, although an appropria- 
tion of $7,500 was made to defray the expense of this occasion, 
they are expected to provide their own music and foot their own 
bills. This is invidious and unjust, not to say insulting. 

Whether the blame for this wrong attaches to the committee 
of councils or to the military authorities we are not aware; but it 
is probable that petty military jealousy is at the bottom of it. 
If so, General Prevost owes it to himself and to the honor of the 
citizen soldiery in general to set this matter right. 

On July 4th, the Corps took part in the parade of the 1st Divi- 
sion in honor of Independence Day. In the latter part of July, the 
Corps paraded in the evening for the purpose of giving an escort to 
the 5th Maryland Regiment, of Baltimore, who were to pass through 
the city on their way to Cape May, for a tour of camp duty. 
They arrived at Broad and "Washington Avenue at 9 P. M. A detail 
of the members had previously been placed on the Illuminating 
Corps, whose duty it was to keep the line of march brilliant with 
fireworks. On Chestnut Street near Fourth, some sparks fell into 
the wagon, carrying the fireworks, and but for the activity of the 
attendants, who promptly, and at great risk, threw out those that 
were on fire, thus preventing what might have been a serious oc- 
currence. The display at the ferry was beautiful and brilliant. 
The parade was reviewed by Maj. Gen. Robert Patterson, at his res- 
idence, 13th and Locust Streets. 

From the Press of July 23rd, 1873 : 

Captain Ryan has made full preparations to give a royal wel- 
come to the 5th Maryland. He and his men cannot forget the 
manner in which they were received by the same regiment on the 
occasion of their last visit to Baltimore. A Drummond light will 
be so placed as to illuminate the entire column for its march 
down Chestnut Street, and an abundance of fireworks will enliven 
and vary the scene. It is to be hoped that our citizens will turn 
out in force, and that every public building along the line will be 
properly illuminated. 



192 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

The following order was, last evening, issued: 

Armory State Fencibles, 

July 22, 1873. 
The order issued this day in relation to the reception of the 5th 
Maryland Regiment is hereby countermanded. The command will 
assemble with arms, shako hats, and blue pants, at 10.30 (this 
evening), for the reception of our guests. 

By order of Captain John W. Ryan. 

Band and drum corps will please take notice. 
Order No. 4, which the above countermands, was for the com- 
pany to assemble, without arms, and in citizens ' dress. 

On August 2nd, the Corps assembled in the afternoon in heavy 
marching order to proceed to Atlantic City for a week's encamp- 
ment. 

Adjutant General's Office, 
Harrisburg, July 12, 1873. 
Special Orders No. 74. 

Permission is hereby granted to Co. A, 4th Regiment, ' ' State 
Fencibles," to be absent from August 2d to 10th, both days in- 
clusive, for the purpose of performing a tour of camp duty at 
Atlantic City, New Jersey. 

By command of John F. Hartranft, 

Governor and Com'd'r-in-Chief. 
(Signed) James W. Latta, 

Adjutant General Penna. 
Hdgrs. 1st Div. N. G. P. 

Phila., July 13, 1873. 
Official, G. H. North, 

Li. Col. and A. A. G. 

The following Orders were issued for the information and gov- 
ernment of the Corps during encampment : 

Reveille at 5 : 30 o 'clock A. M. 

Roll Call and absentees reported to Captain; after which the 
tents will immediately be placed in proper order. 

At 7 o'clock the Corps will march (headed by the Band) to Con- 
gress Hall for Breakfast. 

Guard Mounting at 9 o'clock, A. M., after which the members 
will receive permission to leave camp. 

At 1 o 'clock the command will be formed in camp and march 
(as above) to dinner. 

Dres,s Parade at 5 o 'clock. Supper at 6 o 'clock. 

Tattoo Roll Call at 8 o'clock. Taps at 9 o'clock. 

No member of the Corps will be permitted, under any circum- 
stances, to have accommodations instead of those provided for 
by the Committee on Encampment. 



1873 VISIT TO ATLANTIC CITY 193 

Any membor absent when the Corps is formed to march to hotel 
for meals, will have to procure the meal for that time at hih! 
own expense, outside of the hotel. 

The Commanding Officer hopes that the deportment of the mem- 
bers while off duty will be such as to reflect credit upon them- 
selves, individually, as well as the Corps in general, and 
prove the assertion that io he a good soldier a man must be 
a gentleman. 

By order of John W. Ryan, 

Convynanding. 

Atlantic City Daily Review, August 2nd, 1873: 

At about twenty minutes past 4 o 'clock, on Saturday afternoon, 
the whistle of the locomotive announced that the Pennsylvania 
State Fencibles had arrived. Landing in front of the Surf House 
they formed ranks, and marched up Atlantic Avenue in solid col- 
umn, drawing forth the plaudits of the immense crowds of people 
that lined either side of the handsome thoroughfare. There was a 
perfect ovation to the soldiery along the line of march, and such a 
welcome extended as the ' ' boys ' ' will not soon forget. The 
splendid band which accompanies the Fencibles, made the air ring 
with patriotic music, which added to the shrill whistling of the 
locomotive salute, made up a scene of great liveliness. After 
marching up Atlantic Avenue to New Jersey Avenue, they passed 
down that fine street to Pacific, and on arriving in front of Con- 
gress Hall, they were received by the old veteran. Col. James 
Page, of Philadelphia, who welcomed them in a neat and appro- 
priate speech. Across the street at the corner of Massachusetts 
and Pacific Avenues there was stretched a beautiful flag emblaz- 
oned with the words — ' ' Welcome Fencibles. ' ' The enthusiasm at 
this point was grand, and the vast crowd assembled surged and 
swayed with excitement. The Corps certainly did appear to great 
advantage while passing under the glorious emblem which floated 
so proudly in the breeze. Their gay uniforms of blue and gold, 
finished off by the magnificent black hats, which are the distinctive 
characteristic of the State Fencibles, made up a picture, which to 
say the least, was grand. From Congress Hall the Fencibles 
passed up Massachusetts Avenue to the ' ' old field, ' ' where they 
encamped and took up strict military regulations. 

Great credit is due the officers of this finely drilled body of men, 
for the efficient manner in which they went through the various 
evolutions on Saturday. The first thing requisite in army life is 
good, solid, intelligent officers, and then discipline will be easily 
and duly observed. Such officers the Fencibles have, and they 
show able management in their every movement. Now that the 
boys have arrived we hope our people will make things as enter- 
taining for them as possible, so that when they depart they can 
carry with them the feeling that ' ' it was good to be there. ' ' For 
13 



194 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE TENCIBLES 1873 

our part we rejoice over the advent, and so do the * ' fair ones ' ' — 
of this noble body of citizen soldiery. We heartily welcome them 
to our city. May their stay be most pleasant, and the hours un- 
usually sweet. 

Atlantic City News, August 9tli, 1873 : 

Yesterday afternoon the State Fencibles were reviewed at Camp 
Meade by Governor Hartranft, of Pennsylvania. As was antici- 
pated, the occasion drew together a vast concourse of people to 
witness this fine military display of Pennsylvania's handsome sol- 
diery. At half past five o 'clock the men were drawn up in line 
and went through the exercises of the regular drill, after which 
the drum drill was given with remarkable precision, Captain 
Ryan, commanding. About six o 'clock the applause of the spec- 
tators announced the arrival of General Hartranft, and all eyes 
were turned upon his tall and handsome figure as he, in com- 
pany with Generals Latta, Drummond, Dummick, Selfridge, and 
Major Tobias, wended his way through the throng into the square 
occupied by the Fencibles. After carefully reviewing the men 
the Governor congratulated the officers upon the efficiency of their 
Company in military tactics. The drills more than came up to the 
exijectations of the people, and convinced every one that they were 
champions in the art military. Every man moved with wonder- 
ful precision, and gave us the most magnificent military exhibi- 
tion ever witnessed in this place. 

Atlantic City News, August 9th, 1873, continuing said: 

The Fencibles made a grand burlesque parade along our main 
thoroughfares yesterday morning. The costumes in which they 
were ' ' rigged ' ' were most remarkable productions of ingenuity 
and of an extremely comic character. Some of the boys had on 
huge, conical shaped hats, and tremendous baggy trousers; others 
had on false whiskers, and gay-colored clothing, with coats and 
vests turned inside out. There were excellent representations of 
fat men, aged women, old tars, and many other odd specimens of 
the genus homo. One heavy soldier, dressed as a boy, went merrily 
along blowing a penny trumpet, and several stalwart fellows ap- 
peared as walking barrels mounted on human legs. Captain De- 
viney figured as a chivalrous knight, adorned with a sun-flower of 
grand proportion. A stove jDipe cannon, on which was mounted a 
stuffed paddy, brought up the rear of the procession and caused 
general merriment. To make the parade still more ridiculous, the 
band kept up a series of outrageous footings, which, together 
with the crash of the drums made up a sublime spectacle. This 
novel procession was under the command of Captain Deviney. 
The stove pipe cannon was under the charge of Sergeant Abel. 
After a tramp through the city the Fencibles returned to the camp 



1873 GOVERNOR HARTRANFT VISITS CAMP 195 

ground, where a paper target was set up, the boys blindfolded, and 
told to pitch in. Many wild hits were made, some striking several 
yards away from the target, and still others just nipping it, amid 
the laughter of the great crowd of lookers on. Private Leipsie 
made the best punch and struck the target near the middle. At 
the close of the burlesque exercises he was presented with a hand- 
some gold medal, of the value of $40. The medal is very beautiful, 
being the exact shape of a Maltese Cross,* and bearing upon its 
centre the monogram of the State Fencibles. The affair was most 
pleasant throughout, and was decidedly the event of the season. 

A telegram sent by the Governor to his Adjutant General was as 
follows : 

The Western Union Telegraph Company. 

Dated Wilkes-Barre, Aug. 5, 1873. 
Received at via Phila. 6th. 
To Adj't Gen'l Latta, 
JJ. S. Hotel. 
Will go to Atlantic City on Friday morning at eleven o'clock 
and review State Fencibles that afternoon at five P. M. Invite 
Staff and join me. Get transportation for party. Will be at 
Harrisburg to-morrow four P. M. Answer. 

J. F. Hartranft. 

A detail had preceded the Corps to pitch the canvas and pre- 
pare the camp, which was situated on the meadows midway be- 
tween the city and inlet, and near the railroad. The Corps 
took their meals at Congress Hall. At this camp the men 
were not subjected to strict military duty, it being mostly for pleas- 
ure, but strict discipline was maintained regarding their military 
bearing and behavior. The men enjoyed the greater part of the 
day in sailing, fishing, and bathing. They had many visitors to en- 
tertain. Each evening a dress parade was performed. During the- 
camp they were honored by a vist from His Excellency Joel Parker, 
and his entire Staff, of New Jersey ; also by His Excellency John F. 
Hartranft, Governor of Pennsylvania, and his Staff. They were 
entertained by the officers and the Old Guard. After spending a 
pleasant week the Corps returned home on the afternoon of the 
9th. They were received on their return at the ferry by the Wee- 
cacoe Legion and escorted to the Armory. 

•See page 188. 



196 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

On August 21st, the following orders were issued at Harrisburg, 
by the Governor : 

Adjutant General's Office, 
Harrisburg, August 21st, 1873. 
Special Orders No. 81. 

» * * * * »*** 

VI. Company A, 4th Regiment Infantry, 1st Division National 
Guard of Penna., will hereafter be known and recognized as the 
"State Fencibles." 

VII. The 4th Regiment Infantry, Ist Division National Guard 
of Penna., having practically ceased to exist, is hereby disbanded. 

By command of John F. Hartranft, 

Governor and Com'd'r-in-Chief. 
James W. Latta, 

Adjutant General Pa. 
Hdqrs. 1st Div. N, G. P., 

Philada., Aug. 22, 1873. 
Official, G. H. North, 

Lt. Col. and A. A. G. 

The reputation of the Fencibles was coextensive with the boim- 
dary of the Country, as may be seen from the following: 

San Francisco, October 7th, 1873. 
Captain John W. Ryan, State Fencibles: 

Dear Sir: — I hope you will excuse the liberty I take in address- 
ing you, but having the good fortune of being born in your city, 
I feel assured that you will overlook by presumption. My ob- 
ject in writing is to ascertain what arrangements can be made for 
a reception of my company, on or about the opening of the great 
Centennial Fair. If I am alive, I propose to bring with me, on 
that occasion, one hundred well-drilled and perfect gentlemen, who 
will compare favorably with any military organization in the 
United States. I am taking time by the forelock, for I am of the 
opinion that anything that is worth doing, is worth doing right. 
Hoping to receive an early answer, I close my letter by sending 
my best respects to the State Fencibles and their able com- 
mander. 

John Stratman, Captain, 
Company B, Second Infantry, N. G. C. 

Philadelphia, October 17th, 1873. 

Captain John Stratman, Commanding Stratman Zouaves, San 

Francisco : 

Your favor of the 7th inst. has been received, and contents read 

to my Fencibles. Your proposed trip to this city in 1876, in 

order to participate in the Centennial Celebration, is looked upon 



1873 INSPECTION— ADJUTANT GENKKAL'S HKl'OHT 197 

with much gratification ; and I can assure you and your comuiand 
that the same spirit of patriotism that has stimulated the Zouaves 
to visit our city will be happily respouded to by our Corps; and I 
would further state that nothing shall be left undone on our part 
to make your stay in Philadelphia as pleasant as possible. 

In regard to other necessary arrangements for your visit, it is 
rather an early day to speak definitely of. I feel assured that 
those who have the regulation of our National Guard, especially 
the First Division, will see that proper measures are taken in order 
that a fitting reception will be extended to those of our brothers- 
in-arms that may honor us with their presence on that great event 
in our country 's history. You will perceive that at present it 
would be a delicate matter for the Corps to interfere in any ar- 
rangement that may be made by parties who will have it in charge. 
With these few remarks, I assure you that, if living, I shall be very 
happy to greet you on your arrival. 

I remain yours, 

JoHX W. Ryan, Captain. 

On October 28th, in compliance with orders, the Corps assembled 
in the evening for muster and inspection, imder the new Militia 
Law passed by the Legislature. There were present 2 officers and 
72 men. The drill room was gaylj^ decorated with the National 
Colors and Prof. Oberkirsh with his band was present. After the 
inspection Adjt. Gen. James W. Latta, was presented with a certifi- 
cate of Honorary membership by Col. James Page. After this cere- 
mony the Corps gave a drill before the large audience. 

Sunday EepubUc, January 11, 1874, contains the following 
as part of the report of Adjutant General Latta: 

The first annual report of General Latta is by far the most 
interesting document ever issued from the Military Department 
of our Commonwealth. * . * * The General says: 

* * * The State Fencibles, Captain John W. Ryan, is the 
best drilled and most completely instructed company organiza- 
tion in Pennsylvania. 

The Republic, November 2nd, 1873, referring to the annual in- 
spection, said: 

This splendid organization was inspected and mustered by Adju- 
tant General Latta, assisted by Captain Hassinger, A. A. G., and 
Major Mitchell, of General Hofmann's Staff, on Tuesday even- 
ing last, at the City Armory. About 500 ladies and gentlemen 
were assembled to witness the inspection and drill of the Corps 
subsequent to the muster. Two officers and seventy-two men (in- 



198 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1873 

eluding seven drummers) were present, and one oflScer and eleven 
enlisted men were absent. The inspection by General Latta was 
most thorough, and the arms, accoutrements, etc., were found to 
be in excellent condition. The muster being over Captain Ryan 
manoeuvred the company in the various evolutions, manual of 
arms, loading and firing, etc., and on this, as on former occa- 
sions, the Corps did excellent; the lightning drill particularly, 
being perfect. The large audience present were delighted with 
the handsome appearance of the company, and rounds of applause 
followed the execution of the various commands. 

During the evening General Latta was presented with a neatly- 
framed certificate of Honorary membership, Colonel Page making 
the presentation speech, in which he paid a high tribute to the 
Fencibles of the past as well as of the present day. 

On Thursday evening last the members of the Corps, in citizens 
dress, proceeded to the residence of Captain Ryan, southeast corner 
of Seventeenth Street and Columbia Avenue, where they were 
handsomely entertained by their Commander. We are pleased to 
hear that new recruits are coming in rapidly and that the prospects 
of a hundred men in line on next muster day look well. 

Two of the finest organizations in this city are the 1st Regi- 
ment and State Fencibles, and on their recent inspection not a 
single General in the 1st Division was present to give encourage- 
ment to the efforts of the officers and men. 

The inspection of the 1st Division is completed, and we will be 
under obligations to General Latta if he will furnish us with a con- 
solidated report of the same. 

On the evening of November 12th, at a special meeting of the 
Corps, Capt. David Stretch, of the 82nd Pa. Vol., presented to the 
Company the Marquee flag of the State Fencibles, that the Com- 
pany had presented to Capt. John Miller, while they were serving 
as Co. E. 18th Pa. Vol., on Federal Hill, Baltimore, during the 
Rebellion, and which flew to the breeze on the Captain's tent dur- 
ing their term of service. Captain Stretch was then the Fir.st 
Lieutenant of the Company. 

November 29th, Thanksgiving Day, the Corps made a street 
parade in the afternoon. 

At the monthly meeting in December, the following humorous 
report was read : 

I have the honor to report that I accompanied the Corps in 
command of the curbstone committee during its parade on Thanks- 
giving Day, and am pleased with the manner tlie members con- 
ducted themselves on this afternoon 's parade. Their conduct 



? o 




1873 A MERITED COMPLIMENT 199 

brought forth applause from tlie people lining the pavement and 
many complimentary remarks I heard expressed, and among many 
I might mention — a snowball of African descent in his ecstasy 
said: " Dem Fcncibles is always red hot," another sunburnt 
hero said, ' ' Dem 's de cheese, ' ' still another, ' ' Fore de Lord, 
dey take de cake." Many amusing expressions could be heard 
from the gentlemen of color that were always attracted by the 
drill of the Fencibles on the street. 

Curbstone Committee. 

Major John Melloy, Chairman. 

This report throughout was very humorous and original, and 
while it was unofficial all enjoyed it. 

In the month of December, the Corps received from the United 
States Government four condemned cannons and balls that were 
donated by Congress through the efforts of the Hon. Wm. D. 
Kelley, for the construction of a monument to the memory of the 
Fencibles killed in the Civil AVar. and to be placed in Fairmount 
Park.* 

From a newspaper of January 10th, 1874 ; 

A Merited Compliment. 

Capain John W. Ryan, of the State Fencibles, of Philadelphia, 
was yesterday the recipient of a handsomely engraved certificate 
of membership of the Second Regiment N. G. of California. This 
regiment is the pride of the Pacific Coast, and the testimonial thus 
forwarded in recognition of Captain Ryan 's efficient drillery, and 
the consequent perfection of the Fencibles under his command, is 
not only a high compliment to him personally, but is an evidence 
of the esprit de corjys which, in view of the coming Centennial, 
is permeating every section of the country. 

The crack Regiment sending this testimonial will visit Philadel- 
phia during the celebration of 1876, and will be especially cared 
for by the Fencibles. 

A fine photograph of Major John Stratman, commanding the 
Regiment in question, accompanied the certificate, and it is under- 
stood that the Honorary membership of the Fencibles will be ten- 
dered to this gentleman by to-morrow 's mail. 

January 22nd, 1874, the Corps paraded this morning to attend the 
funeral of our late comrade, Benjamin Say Stone, marching to the 
Odd Fellows Cemetery, where the Corps paid its last tribute to the 
memory of the deceased. The Corps on this occasion turned out 

•Later these were made into medals for the G. A. R. 



200 ONE HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

with the following strength : 24 musicians. 3 commissioned officers, 
8 staff officers, 60 enlisted men. 

On the 29th, at the weekly drill of the Corps, they were honored 
by a visit from Gen. Fernando Lopez, of the Cuban Army (former- 
ly a Lieutenant in the Fencibles),* who congratulated the Corps on 
the excellence of their drill and appearance, and particularly with 
their quarters. On his return to Cuba he was captured by the 
Spaniards and garroted. 

On February 17th, the Corps assembled in full dress uniform to 
attend the Mardi Grass of the old Maennerchor singing society at 
the Academy of Music, and participated in the grand allegorical 
march ; this was a very beautiful sight, as viewed from the audi- 
torium, after which the members enjoyed the dancing for the bal- 
ance of the evening. 

Sunday, Washington's Birthday, the Corps having received an 
invitation from the Rector of St. Clement's Church, 18th and 
Cherry Streets, to attend divine service, at 9 A. M. assembled at the 
Armory, and preceded by Oberkirsh's Band, marched to the resi- 
dence of Major Tobias, for the purpose of escorting Maj. Gen. 
Charles M. Prevost and staff to church. During the service the band 
played several selections, and the singing was furnished by a choir 
of boys. When the service was ended, the Corps took up the line 
of march and escorted the General and his staff to their quarters 
and returned to the Armory. 

On March 29th, owing to anticipated riots of the workmen of the 
Erie Railroad, at the Susquehanna Depot, who had struck for pay 
due them, and assumed a threatening attitude toward destroy- 
ing the property of the company, Governor Hartranft ordered 
the 1st Regt. Col. R. Dale Benson, to proceed at once to that place. 
They left early that afternoon with 350 men, and during the same 
afternoon Captain Ryan received orders from the Adjutant General, 
James W. Latta, to be prepared to move if more troops were 
needed. Accordingly Captain Ryan issued orders for the Company 
to assemble at 8 P. M. fully equipped for service. In response to 
the order 60 men reported for duty. Later in the evening a dis- 
patch was received from the Governor that the excitement had sub- 
sided, and that no more troops would be needed. The Company 
was then dismissed after receiving the thanks of the Captain for 
their prompt response to his order. 

*See page 111. 



1874 KRIE RAILROAD STRIKE OQI 

The Mercury, March 29th, 3874, said of the strike: 

The strike on the New York and Erie Railroad at Susquehanna 
Depot, reached such a point yesterday that Governor llartranft 
ordered the First Kegiment (Gray Reserves) of this city to pre- 
pare for service. The order was promulgated early yesterday 
morning, and by 10 A. M. the men assembled in full strength 
at their Armories. Large numbers of citizens also lingeretl 
around to hear the news. Telegrams passed between Colonel 
Benson and Governor llartranft several times during the day. 
About noon the regiment was dismissed until 5 P. M., when 350 
men answered roll call. 

After waiting about an hour a telegram was received from the 
Governor to proceed to the scene of the strike at once. The 
order was read and received by the men with cheers, and in a few 
minutes knapsacks were slung and the Regiment in marching order. 
It was at first intended to proceed by the way of Harrisburg, but a 
message was received to take the North Pennsylvania Railroad, 
and the line of march was taken at 7.15 P. M. for the depot. 
The regiment made a splendid appearance as it marched along 
with martial music, and thousands of spectators lined the streets 
to w-itness its departure. The cars were soon taken and at 8 P. 
M. the train moved off amid intense excitement. It is expected 
that the regiment reached Susquelianna depot about daybreak. 

The Second Regiment and State Fencibles were also under arms, 
and Captain Ryan telegraphed to the Governor that he had ninety 
men ready for service, but he received a reply that no more troops 
were needed. 

At four o'clock this morning General Prevost received a tele- 
gram from Colonel Benson, at Bethlehem, stating that his com- 
mand had arrived there at twelve P. M., and would leave at 12.10 
for Scranton, but further information obtained shows that they did 
not leave until 12.30, and that they arrived at Scranton by the 
Lehigh and Susquehanna at seven o'clock this morning. 

A telegram was also received by General Prevost last night from 
Governor Hartranft to the effect that he did not desire any more 
troops. 

Adjutant During will be at the First Regiment Armory at 12 
o 'clock to-day to muster such men as could not leave yesterday. 
He expects to take twenty or thirty men with him to-day. 

A Fencible anxious to be present with his command, sent the 
foUowmg telegram: 

The Western Union Telegraph Company. 
Dated Hazleton, Pa., Mar. 30th, 1874. 

To Capt. John W. Ryan or Members State Fencibles: 
Has the Company left? Telegraph to me immediately and I 
will join them at scene of action. Taggart. 



202 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1874 

On May 7th, a combined uniform drill and hop took place at the 
Armory. The drill room was beautifully decorated with flags and 
banners for the occasion. Shortly after 7 P. M. the lady friends of 
the Corps began to arrive with their escorts, and by the time the 
Corps arrived, the room was filled with an elegant audience. At 8.30 
the Corps appeared on the floor for inspection, there being a total 
of 78 men. After the inspection, the Company prepared for drill 
with 3 officers and 49 men. The drill consisted of manual of arms, 
company movements, fixing and unfixing bayonets, loading and 
firing, the manual without commands, and the mysterious drill. 
During the evening they were presented with an elegant rosewood 
piano, by their lady friends. The presentation was made by Mrs. 
Stewart, the widow of Adm. Charles Stewart, IT. S. N., on behalf 
of the committee and the ladies. Miss S. Berger and Mrs. Wilson 
representing the committee. It was replied to by Col. James Page 
in his usual happy manner. After the ceremonies, dancing was in- 
dulged in, and the piano moved to the company parlor, where the 
ladies and gentlemen played and sang. This entertainment proved, 
like many others given by the Corps, as being successful for enjoy- 
ment and good feeling, and will long be remembered by those 
taking part. 

On May 20th, the Corps assembled at the Armory to take part in 
the Field-day of the 1st Division at Edgely, in East Fairmount 
Park. The Corps on this occasion reported with a band of 20 
pieces; drum corps, 9; commissioned officers, 3; staff officers, 4; 
men, 60; total, 96; which proved to be the strongest company on the 
field. Upon the arrival of the Corps at Edgely, they were detailed 
as headquarter guard and took part in the various drills set apart 
for the troops. In the afternoon, by request of the General, the 
Corps gave an exhibition drill, in front of the division headquarters. 
The duties of the day closed with a dress parade, after which the 
troops marched to the City and were dismissed. 

The 61st Anniversary of the Corps was celebrated on May 26th, 
by a banquet, given in the Armory drill room. A number of in- 
vited guests were present; toasts were given, songs were sung, and 
some very witty speeches made. After spending an enjoyable 
evening, at a late hour all adjourned. 

On May 30th, Decoration Day, the Corps assembled at the Ar- 
mory in full uniform and white pants, to proceed to Manayunk. to 



1874 BOSTON F US I LEERS— A POEM 203 

act as ■escort to Hetty A. Jones I*ost, G. A. K. Tpoii acriving at 
Manayunk the procession formed and marched to the Roxborough 
Cemetery. The day was iiitenselj^ liut and the hilly and dusty 
roads made it very trying for the men. At the cemetery they assist- 
ed in decorating graves. After the ceremonies they left for home, 
arriving early in the evening; 75 men reported for duty. 

June 17th. all arrangements for the reception of the Boston Fusi- 
leers. who were about to visit our City, having been completed, the 
Corps assembled at the Armory at 9 A. M. in full uniform and full 
ranks. Later taking the steam cars to the new Girard Avenue 
bridge, on the west side, which had not been completed, they de- 
trained and stacked arms on the western approach opposite the 
Zoological Garden, and awaited the train. A committee of staff 
officers had gone to Trenton to meet the visitors, so they would be 
the first body to cross the new structure, and also thought they 
would enjoy the pleasant march through the park to the Green 
Street entrance, where they were to view the painting of the 
Battle of Gettysburg, by Rothermell. 

After the necessary military ceremonies had been observed, the 
line of march was taken up, crossing the new bridge and through 
the East Park to the Art gallery. After reforming, the march was 
taken up for the Armory, where both organizations stacked arms. 
The Fencibles and Fusileers, arm in arm. proceeded up to the drill 
floor, where a banquet was served. The long table reaching the en- 
tire length of the room, loaded with all the delicacies of the season 
and splendidly decorated, was a pleasing sight. Colonel Page of the 
Old Guard, made the address of welcome. A prayer was offered 
by the Rev. Dr. Reilly of St. Clement's Church, following which 
a song of welcome, composed for the occasion by Colonel Page, was 
sung by the Fencibles. 

The Old Guard and Fencibles Welcome to the Fusileers. 

Around the board in festive vein. 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
Comrades we gather once again, 

Hurrali ! Hurrah ! 
With memories of the bygone years. 
To meet the Boston Fusileers. 

Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah! 



204 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

What nobler sight thau this to see, 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
Type of Boston's chivalry, 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
It warms the heart, the spirit cheers, 
The gallant Boston Fusileers. 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 

And should the flag of freedom fly, 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
Amid the smoke of battle's sky, 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
There would be hope, but never fears, 
If flying o'er the Fusileers. 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 

Then let us think of Bunker Hillj 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
Where freeman fought and with a will, 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 
Let 's give to these three hearty cheers. 
And with them join the Fusileers. 

Hurrah ! Hurrah ! Hurrah ! 

In composing these lines Colonel Page said his memory went 
back to the time, when a yoimger man, they entertained this or- 
ganization 45 years before.*' 

At the close of the song all partook of the good things set be- 
fore them. After which the Fencibles escorted them to their quar- 
ters at the Continental Hotel. In the evening, the members assem- 
bled at the hotel and took some of the Fusileers to Colonel Wood's 
Museum; others going to places of amusement to which they had 
been invited. On the morning of the 18th, they went sight-seeing, 
and in the afternoon were taken in carriages to the park, where 
they witnessed the boat races and regatta of the Schuylkill Navy. 
They were then taken to the Falls of Schuylkill and "Wissahickon, 
where refreshments were served. After returning to the hotel the 
Officers dined with the Officers of the Fusileers. In the evening 
they were shown some of the sights of our City. On the morning of 
the 19th, they were escorted to the New York Depot, and amid the 
cheers of the Fencibles, left for home. 

*See page 47. 



1874 ' PARADE— TARGET FIRING 205 

Prior to the arrival of tlie Fusileers, Captain Ryan sent the fol- 
lowing notice to all citizens along the Route of Parade : 

Armoey Infantey Coeps State Fencibles. 
Broad below Race. 

Philadelphia, .Tune 11th, 1874. 
To the Ladies and Gentlemen of the House: 

On Wednesday next, 17th inst., our Corps will receive the Inde- 
pendent Boston Fusileers, a very old and Honorable Military Or- 
ganization from Boston, Massachusetts. 

Being desirous of making their parade through our streets and 
their stay in our city as agreeable as possible to them, you are re- 
spectfully requested to display all the National, State or any 
other flags or colors you may have in your possession. Also be 
good enough not to wet the street in front of your house for the 
dust is preferable to mud. 

* * * We hope you \Yill do all in your power to make it a 
success. * * * 

By order of Committee on Route, 

Capt. J. W. Ryan, 
Chairman. 

At a special meeting of the Corps, on Thursday evening, August 
23rd, it was resolved to proceed on the next Thursday to Mund and 
Albrecht's Farm, for target practice, and the following order was 
issued : 

Aemory State Fencibles, 
Philadelphia, August 3, 1874. 
Company Oedee No. 10. 

The Corps will assemble at the Armory on Thursday morning, 
August 27th, at 8 o'clock, sharp, in full dress uniform (white 
pants) for target practice. 

By order of J. W. Ryan, Captain. 

The Sunday Republic said: 

The Corps and their friends will take the nine o'clock train, at 
Ninth and Green Streets, which will convey them to the Falls of 
Schuylkill, from whence they shall march to the farm. Upon their 
arriving at the farm, the target will be immediately erected and 
the firing will be commenced. The Company have in their posses- 
sion several handsome medals, and competition among the shooters 
is lively. 

After dinner the members and their friends will participate in 
field sports. An amusing game of base ball will take place be- 
tween the Ponies and the Big Fellers, which cannot fail to interest. 



206 ONE HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

The selling of pools -uill be prohibited, except Mhen it is done in 
private; therefore, the innocent cannot be swindled. The com- 
mittee have resolved to conduct the affair with proper decorum. 

A number of young men have lately been added to the list of the 
Corps members, and it is evident that the September meeting will 
increase the list. They will parade on the occasion in their 
new pants, which will add greatly to their appearance. It is also 
proposed to change the style of the fatigue cap to that of the 
McClellan pattern. This is a wise movement and right, as their 
present cap has no visor for the protection of the face, which is 
highly necessary. 

As the summer vacation is about to expire, and a pruning out 
of the dead wood has taken place since their regular drill ceased, 
a spirited time can be looked for the coming fall. On the 14th 
of September, they will meet and commence operations. 

At the last meeting of the Fencibles it was resolved to give their 
annual ball. 

From the Sunday Mercury, September 6th, 1874: 

On the roll of the Fencibles are the names of some of our 
oldest citizens, whose reputations are of the highest order. Those 
originally attached to them are fast passing from our midst 
and it was but a few days ago since two of their old members 
departed from this earth. We allude to Augustus Hildebrandt and 
Captain Thomas H. Marston. Mr. Hildebrandt was born in the 
year 1789, in the Force City, of Bremen, Germany. He came to 
this country when a minor and settled in this City. He was one 
of the one hundred and thirty-one members of the State Fencibles 
who performed duty at Camp DuPont, in 1814. He carried on the 
fancy basket and variety business for many years, on the south 
side of Market Street, above Fourth. There now remain but ten 
who were his companions at Camp DuPont; all the rest are be- 
neath the green sod. 

Captain Marston was at one time a Lieutenant of the Fencibles ; 
and during the late war he served as a Captain in the Eighty- 
second Eegiment, P. V. He was attached to the Pennsylvania 
Hose Company, and filled many positions of honor and trust in 
the company. 

From the Sunday Republic, September 20th, 1874: 

The troubles or dissensions that have for months past prevailed 
in this prominent company of the First Division have, at last, 
assumed such a phase that the reputation of this worthy organiza- 
tion for concert of action, soldierly discipline, and general mili- 
tary faultlessness, has not only been seriously compromised, but 
the very existence of the Corps has been imperiled. Two bellig- 




THE PAGE MEMORIAL WINDOW. ARMOUY-STATE FEXCIHLES. 



1874 CONTROVERSY BETWEEN PAGE AND RYAN 207 

erent and unrelenting factions, one under the leadership of Cap- 
tain Ryan, and the other marshalled by the chief of the Old Guard, 
Colonel Page, have almost since the organization of the Corps, 
been contending for the supremacy or general management of the 
affairs of the company. The Ryan faction, composed of the fol- 
lowers of their Captain, maintain tliat the commandant of the 
Corps is the proper ' ' head, ' ' and proper one to run the ma- 
chine; while the Page clique contend that the affairs of the Corps 
must be managed in a legitimate, straightforward, soldierly way, 
and not be a "one-man-power." The antagonism or feud had 
been gradually increasing, and all eflorts to effect a compromise 
have proved fruitless. Since the recent reception and entertain- 
ment of the Independent Fusileers of Boston, matters have become 
so complicated tliat on last Monday evening. Captain Ryan finally 
concluded to tender his resignation. We sincerely regret that some 
compromise could not be effected, but as either one or the other 
' ' bones of contention ' ' had to withdraw, we now hope to record a 
speedy relapse and a permanent cure of these chronic troubles. 
That this "bright particular star" in our military galaxy may 
shortly recover its once proud position in our National Guard is 
the hearty and sincere wish of every member of the First Divi- 
sion. 

The Sunday Republic, September 27th, 1874, said: 

We have received a communication from Captain Ryan, in which 
he says we have been misinformed as to the cause of his resigna- 
tion. He informs us that the relations between himself and Col- 
onel Page have always been of a pleasant nature. The Captain, 
however, is severe on certain men who bring personal matters into 
military duty, but he does not give any reasons for his resigna- 
tion other than those mentioned in the document forwarded to 
Harrisburg. We are assured that there is no dissension in the 
ranks of the ' ' State Fencibles, ' ' and that they have not lost their 
once proud position in the National Guard, and an invitation is ex- 
tended to us to visit the Armory, when we will be able to see 
for ourselves. 

This is Captain Ryan 's statement of the case. Our information 
relative to the case was obtained from members of the ' ' Old 
Guard, ' ' who still insist that the cause of the resignation, as pub- 
lished by us last Sunday, Mas correct. From present appearances, 
however, it looks as if Captain Ryan was not in earnest when he 
tendered his resignation, and that he will again appear at the head 
of his company on next inspection day. It is rumored that on 
Monday last, at the inspection of the First Brigade, he was pre- 
vailed upon by Governor Hartranft and General Latta to with- 
draw his resignation. 



208 ON^E HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

The Sunday Press, October 4th. 1874, said : 

This organization will parade for inspection and review to- 
morrow. The Corps has been making active preparations for this 
important event, and the drills during the past fortnight have been 
well attended. As the company is au fait in the tactics, some ex- 
cellent marching may be anticipated to-morrow. 

The much talked of resignation of the plucky and indefatigable 
Captain of the Corps turns out, after all, to be a ruse, much we 
opine, to the disappointment and disgust of a score of vain- 
glorious epaulet aspirants. This invincible son of Mars — Cap- 
tain John W. Ryan — ' 'tis reported,' had been importuned by 
the Governor and his Adjutant General to withdraw his resigna- 
tion, and as long as 'Johnny' had no idea of retiring from the 
proud and enviable position he occupies in the National Guards, 
he has, after brief deliberation, reconsidered his impetuosity, and 
will recall the document. The 'Ryan faction,' are most certainly 
to be congratulated on this ' very important ' one of their many, of 
a brilliant series of bloodless victories. With an excited popu- 
lace we join in the pouular cry: 'Viva La Ryan and the gallant 
Corps of State Fencibles. ' 

We quote from the Evening Bulletin of October 5th, 1874, re- 
ferring to the military review of the Second Brigade : 

The semi-annual of fall inspection of the various commands 
in the Second Brigade, of the First Division, N. G. P., took place 
this morning, at Edgely. The weather was decidedly propitious, 
and although the turnout was good, yet it was not so large as 
might have been expected, owing to the fact that the occasion re- 
quired an entire day, and as many of the men are mechanics they 
could not afford to lose it. The various commands were on the 
ground at the time announced, and so was the Governor, with his 
Adjutant General and Staff. The latter immediately proceeded to 
business, and, as on the occasion of the inspection of the First 
Brigade, the Adjutant General made a very close examination 
of men and equipments, here and there calling attention to a piece 
not exactly up to the standard, and commending in instances where 
care and attention had been bestowed upon muskets and accoutre- 
ments. 

This Brigade is composed of the First and Third Regiments and 
the State Fencibles, and it is creditable to each, that care had 
been taken by the men to produce a more favorable impression 
than did the First Brigade. 

State Fencibles. 

This Company presented the strongest front of any on the 
ground, and was highly commended for the discipline that was 
apparent to the merest novice, both in movements and in condition 



1874 VISIT OP clevp:laxd polick commissioners 209 

of their pieces and accoutrements. It was under the command of 
Captain John W. Ryan, and in addition to the three officers 
and sixty-seven men, there was a drum corps of nine men. Mc- 
Clurg's Band, in their Austrian uniform, accompanied the Fenci- 
bles, and performed some excellent music during the Inspection. 

During the inspection the Governor was attended by the fol- 
lowing members of the Staff: James W. Latta, Adjutant Gen- 
eral; Brigadier General, L. W. Read; Surgeon General, Colonel 
D. Stanley Hassinger, A. D. C; Colonel J. W. Schall, A. D. C. ; 
Colonel Charles S. Green. A. D. C. ; Colonel Jos. F. Tobias, A. 
D. C, and Colonel J. K. Haffey, A. D. C. In addition to the 
above the Governor was attended by H. S. Huidekoper, Major 
General commanding the Seventh Division, N. G. P., and Major 
General W. K. Siegfreid, commanding Fourth Division N. G. P. 

The dress parade and review of the Brigade by the Governor 
will take place this afternoon. 

The Sunday Republic, November 8th. 1874, published the follow- 
ing: 

On last Monday evening the Commissioners of Police of Cleve- 
land, Ohio, were entertained to an exhibition drill by the State 
Fencibles, at the large hall of the Fire Department, on Race 
Street, the exhibition not taking place at the City Armory on ac- 
count of the regular drill-room being occupied by the First Regi- 
ment on that evening. The company paraded in fatigue uniform 
and numbered some sixty muskets. The manual and few evolu- 
tions performed were handsomely, nay, faultlessly, done. The 
loading and firing, the fixing and unfixing of bayonets, were exe- 
cuted with the regularity or percision of clock work, and called 
forth the hearty and well merited applause of the gentlemen from 
the Lake City. The drill was one of the best we have ever wit- 
nessed by this inimitable organization. At the conclusion, Mr. Ster- 
ling, of the commissioners, returned the thanks of the visiting gen- 
tlemen for the entertainment, speaking eulogistically of the Com- 
pany's proficiency, and in\nting Captain Ryan and his Corps to 
visit Cleveland, where the Fencibles would receive a warm wel- 
come. The Clevelandites, amid cheers and rocket, then withdrew, 
and with their escort. Fire Commissioner J. S. Robinson, and Mes- 
senger Mort L. Johnson, of City Councils, visited the American 
Theatre and other places of amusement. 

The Sunday Morning Voice, Cleveland, Ohio, November 8th, 
1874, said of the State Fencibles : 

We visited the Fire Department headquarters, and witnessed 
an exhibition of drilling by this fine company. 

This is the oldest military company in the State, and dates its 
organization back to May 26, 1813. Colonel James Page, the 
President of the Company, was one of its original members, and is 
14 



210 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

still hale and hearty, though well along in years. Tlie old State 
Fencibles served in the War of 1812, in the Mexican War, and in 
the War of the Eebellion it sent out two companies. It is at pres- 
ent composed of young men who are the favorites of the City. The 
organization represents years of national services. The exhibi- 
tion drill which they gave was a wonderful example of the de- 
gree of skill that can be attained by constant practice in exer- 
cises of this character. The men performed their evolutions with 
the precision of clock-work, and we can scarcely imagine anything 
more perfect than their handling of the muskets. When the order 
was given to draw bayonets, and then fix bayonets, there was a 
perfect unanimity of action, followed by the simultaneous 'click' 
of their instruments as they were placed in position. It seemed 
like the work of a single man instead of a company of sixty. 

On August 27th, the members assembled at 8.30 A. M. and 
marched to 9th and Green Street Depot, and took the train for 
Mund and Albrecht's farm, near the Falls of Schuylkill for target 
firing. At 11 o'clock the firing commenced and lasted until 2 
o'clock, when the Corps, the judges and invited guests sat down to 
dinner. After dinner a game of base ball was played and at 6 
o'clock they took the train for the City. 

October 5th, the members assembled at the Armory in the morn- 
ing for muster inspection. The corps mustered : McClurg's Band 18, 
Drum Corps 9, Staff 1, Commissioned officers 3, Enlisted men 64, 
total 95. At 9 o'clock they left the Armory and marched to the 
Keading Depot, where cars were taken for Edgely in the Bast Park. 
Upon arriving at that place they reported to the Headquarters of 
the Division and took the position assigned them. During the day 
they were mustered and inspected by the Adjutant General, James 
W. Latta. In the afternoon the Corps gave an exhibition drill. 
The ceremonies of the day were closed by a dress parade and re- 
view of the Division by Gov. John Hartranft. The cars were taken 
and the whole Division detrained at 18th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
where the column was formed and marched to Broad and Chestnut 
Streets, here they were again reviewed by the Governor and City 
officials, and then dismissed. 

On November 12th, a complimentary benefit was given the Corps 
by their numerous friends at the Walnut Street Theatre, where the 
military drama of '^Not Guilty" was played. Between the acts 
the Corps gave an exhibition drill on the stage. The auditorium of 
the theatre was packed, premiums were offered for seats before the 
theatre opened ; and it proved an inniiense financial success. 



1874 EXHIBITION DRILL— ANNIVERSARY CITY TROOP 211 

The Chronicle of November ]3th, said: 

The Walnut Street Theatre was crowded to its utino.st capacity 
last night. The State Fencibles had a benefit, and to add zest 
to the occasion, the Corps appeared on the stage, and gave an ex- 
hibition drill. The Fencibles have long held the foremost posi- 
tion among the military organizations of the United States, but 
last night they fairly outdid themselves. Captain Ryan had a 
company of .32 men selected, and they went through the whole 
manual of arms, both by word of command and by the rod of 
their Captain. We have no hesitation in saying that a more per- ; 

feet exhibition cannot be given. The men moved as thougii 
automatically, and their various manoeuvres elicited hearty and 
loud applause from the immense audience, among whom were many 
of our well known military dignitaries. Captain Ryan as a drill 
master, nmy well be proud of his record. 

On November 17th, the Corps participated with the 1st Division 
in the parade in honor of the 100th Anniversary of the 1st Troop 
Philadelphia City Cavalry. The Corps numbered 90 officers and 
men, including the band. 

On November 26th, Thanksgiving Day. the Corps attended di- 
vine service in the morning by invitation from the Rev. Miller F. 
Paddock, rector of St. Andrew's Church, 8th above Spruce Street, 
and mustered 75 officers and men. 

On December 17th, Capt. John W. Ryan issued a congratulatory 
circular to the officers and members of the Corps commending them 
on the proficiency and discipline they have attained, for which 
they have received the unqualified plaudits of the people of our 
City and State. 

Headquarters Infantry Corp.s State Fencibles, 
Philadelphia, December 17, 1874. 
Circular : 

We are again brought to the close of another military year, and 
in briefly reviewing it I desire to congratulate you upon the suc- 
cess that has crowned your efforts and the unqualified commenda- 
tions that you have received from the people of the City and of the 
State. Your ranks have increased in numbers, your treasury in 
funds, and you have again and again received the approval of an 
appreciative public. 

As your Captain, I am proud to be the leader of men who are 
quick to learn, and ardent and ready in the performance of their 
duty. In discipline and drill you are equal if not superior, to any 
similar organization in the United States, and your appearance 
ujion parade universally commands the ])laudits and respect of all ; 



212 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1874 

nor is your fame confined to your own State, for many sister 
states have entwined a branch of wreath that you have won. 
Upon this I congratulate you ; you are engaged in a pursuit which 
is admired wherever liberty is cherished and patriotism commend- 
ed; a pursuit which has always commanded the best talent and the 
best men in the land — the greatest statesmen and rulers the world 
has ever known, having been fledglings of the army. 

You have cultivated those habits of accuracy, regularity and 
obedience to superiors which universally characterizes the soldier, 
and lends charms to his every day life. He can be marked upon 
the public streets, in the hall of justice or in the executive chair, 
courageous where courage is demanded, and as gentle as a woman 
when occasion requires it. And even in our peace loving country 
we need not fear the decline of military studies until the spirit 
which animated those of '76 ceases to flow in the veins of our 
citizens. 

Let the progress you have made and the laurels that you have 
won only tend to increase your love for military life, and at the 
coming Centennial I shall be proud to present, not only to the peo- 
ple of our own country, but to the representatives of other nations 
the best drilled, best equipped and the best disciplined organiza- 
tion in the world, and let the home of ' ' America 's Freedom ' ' 
show that she still retains her ancient spirit and that the best 
insignia of her patriotism is her ' ' volunteer soldiery. ' ' 

Again I heartily congratulate you upon this, the close of the 
year 1874. 

John W. Ryan, Captain. 

This letter must have had the desired effect. If a member was 
delinquent in attendance a dozen were at his heels, and woe to him 
if it were repeated. There was always a candidate waiting to fill his 
place, and it was this that accounted for the splendid condition of 
the Corps, more than the efforts of their officers. The attendance at 
drills was often 100 per cent. Their devotion to duty gave the 
Corps a reputation over the entire country for its excellence in drill 
and discipline. 

In 1875 the offiers were Captain Kyan, Lieutenants Packer and 
Stewart. 

The Corps received an invitation from "Sir. and ]\Irs. James R. 
Stewart, the parents of Lieutenant Stewart, to spend the evening 
of January 8th at their residence, 415 Pine Street. They met at the 
Armory and proceeded in a body in citizens dress. The Old 
Guard and members were splendidly entertained by their host and 
hostess. Speeches were made by Col. Charles Rodgers. Captain 
Ryan and others. 



1875 DKATH OF COL. JAMES PAGE 213 

Ou January 21st, the Corps assembled in lull dress uniform tiiat 
evening for drill, and to receive a beautiful State Flag, to Ix' pre- 
sented to the Corps by Capt. Dexter Pratt and a comniittee of 
Boston Fusileers as an acknowledgment for the superb reception 
and entertainment received on their recent visit to Philadelphia. 
After the drill, the presentation was made by ^laj. Henry Oliver, 
military instructor at Girard College, and was received by Captain 
Ryan for the Corps. On the same evening the Corps received from 
the Medford Band, who had accompanied the Fusileers, a very pe- 
culiar gift in acknowledgment for courtesies received. It was a 
five gallon cask of Medford Rum, 20 years old, purity guaranteed. 
The cask was highly ornamented. It is needless to say that it was 
accepted and placed in the custody of the Captain, to be used on 
special occasions. 

On January 27th, the death of Col. John Thornley was an- 
nounced. He was an old member of the Fencibles, and an active 
member of the Old Guard. He took great interest in the affairs of 
the Corps. The Old Guard attended his fimeral in a body. 

On February 26th, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the 
evening in full uniform for the purpose of attending the Ladies' 
International Centennial Assembly, given at the Academy of Music 
and Horticultural Hall, and to receive the Centennial National 
Flag, which was voted for and won for the Corps, by their friends. 
The Corps gave an exhibition drill on this occasion ; 64 officers and 
men were present. 

On the morning of April 6th, Col. James Page died at his resi- 
dence, 272 S. 4th St., after a long illness. He had been connected 
with the Fencibles for 60 years, joining them at Camp DuPont, 
Delaware, in 1814, and was Commander for nearly 50 years, during 
that time it enjoyed a brilliant reputation and high standing in 
its native City, and had a host of friends ia other cities. As a 
Commander he was beloved by his men, and as a citizen commanded 
the respect of all who knew him, and enjoyed great popularity as 
a military man; his entire life, from a young man of 15 years, hav- 
ing been spent in the Fencibles. 

Appropriate resolutions were passed by the Corps and its quar- 
ters ordered to be draped in mourning for 60 days. 

Owing to his desire for a quiet funeral without any demonstra- 
tion whatever, the Corps attended in a body, in uniform and fatigue 
caps, with side arms only, and without a band. They went in car- 



214 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1875 

riages to the church, where the services were held, and escorted the 
remains to Laurel Hill Cemetery. 

A short time after his death the family turned over to the Corps 
the medal presented to the deceased in 1852 by the Company,* and 
the swordf presented by the Old Guard in 1859. The first to be 
worn by the oldest parading member ;$ the second to be carried by 
the Commanding Officer on all occasions of ceremony during the 
existence of the Corps, and to be returned to them if the Corps 
should cease to exist. 

The family shortly after presented the Corps with one thousand 
dollars, as a mark of esteem for the organization. § 

Armory State Fencibles, 
Philadelphia, April 8, 1875. 

At a special meeting of the Active and Honorary members of 
the Corps, held on the 6th inst., the following preamble and resolu- 
tions were unanimously adopted : 

Whereas, A veteran and most beloved soldier, by the death of 
our late President, Colonel James Page, has been borne from the 
battlefield of life, in the irresistible march of time, it behooves 
us as representatives of an organization with which the best 
years of his useful and emulative life have been spent, and whose 
labors and pride for it ceased only with his last words, to honor 
his memory by appropriative expression of veneration and regret. 

Besolved, That the record of his life, encompassed as it is with 
noble and patriotic deeds, invincible integrity, together with a soul 
ever prompted by those kindly acts and thought which elevate and 
enoble the truly great, must stand as his grandest eulogy, more 
lasting far, than the heartfelt expressions of tenderness 
and reverence with which we would crown his memory; that, al- 
though through his own request we are debarred, as soldiers, the 
gratification of administering martial honors at his grave, we rec- 
ognize with pride the modest worth and unassuming nobility which 
prompted it, and we feel that in emulating his many virtues, in 
seeking to profit by his example and by following the path in 
which he sought to lead us, we shall accomplish more in his honor 
than can be expressed in words, which would but too feebly con- 
vey an idea of the void which is felt not only in our hearts, but 
in those of all who knew him as a Christian soldier and citizen, 
and whose high ambition was to be known "as one who loved 
his fellow men." 



*See page 188. 

tNow in possession of the Fencibles. 

jSef; page 188. 

§Life of Colonel Page, see Appendix. 



1875 RKSOr.UTTONS— LF/PTERS 215 

Resolved, That the Corps quarters be draped in mourning for 
sixty days, and that the a Jove be published and a copy of the same 
be presented to the family of the deceased by the committee. 

CoRPL. Charles Bergeb, 

Capt. a. p. Bloomer, 

CoRPL. S. B. Taggart, ^ Committee. 

Private W. W. Chew, 

Capt. Geo. W. Devinet. 

The Corps desiring to secure a Military Library sent out the fol- 
lowing letter : 

Headquarters Armory, Infantry Corps State Fencibles, 

Philadelphia, April 10th, 1875. 
Sir: 

The Corps being desirous of obtaining a Library of standard 
works (Military, if possible), for the purpose of adding to the 
attraction of the Armory, which among others will lead the young 
members to a desire to improve in a knowledge of English and 
other literature. We have every accommodation for such a 
collection, but our means are not sufficient to carry our wishes 
into effect, and we respectfully appeal to you for a contribution 
(with your autograph) in this behalf, feeling assured that this 
laudable design will meet with a favorable response on your 
part. 

Please send contributions by express, at our expense. 
Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

John W. Ryan, 
Captain Commanding Corps, 
151 N. Juniper Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 



As an endorsement of our purpose, the following are respect- 
fully submitted: 

Executive Chamber, 
Harrisburg, Pa., April 2, 1875. 
I do most heartily approve of and recommend the above. 

J. F. Hartranft, 

Governor. 



Headquarters, ]st Division "National Guards" Pa. 
Approved and cheerfully recommended. 

Charles M. Prevost, 
Major General Commanding. 
Philadelphia, April 5th, 1876. 



216 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1875 

Headquarters, 2d Brigade, 1st Division, 
"National Guards" Penna. 
Heartily approved, in the hope that the request of this efScient 
military organization be met with a hearty response. 

Louis Wagner, 
Brig. Gen'l Commanding. 
April 6th, 1875. 



Mayor's Office, 
City of Philadelphia, April 7, 1875. 
I fnlly concur in the above recommendations. 

Wm. S. Stokley, 
Mayor. 

On the evening of May 20th, the Corps paraded for inspection 
and drill in full dress uniform in the presence of a large number 
of ladies and gentlemen. During the evening they were visited by 
Posts 8 and 91, G. A. R., who were accompanied by Gen. James W. 
Latta, Adjt. Gen. N. G. P., and the Matthew Baird Cornet Band, 
who came for the purpose of presenting to the Corps the Champion 
Flag of Pennsylvania.* The presentation was made by the General, 
and received by Captain Ryan. After the ceremonies the Company 
gave a drill. During the evening the audience was favored by 
music from the band, and singing by the Irma Glee Club. On this 
occasion the Corps mustered 62 officers and men. 

On May 29th, Saturday, the Corps paraded as escort to Anna M. 
Ross Post No. 94, G. A. R., and marched to Mechanics Cemetery, 
stopping on the route to decorate the grave of Anna M. Ross in 
Monument Cemetery, for whom the post was named. 

On Sunday, May 30th, a committee of the Corps decorated the 
grave of Col. James Page in Laurel Hill Cemetery, and the grave of 
Benjamin Say Stonef in Odd Fellows Ground. 

On June 3rd, the Corps assembled for parade, and were inspected 
by Maj. Galloway Morris, of the Division Staff, who highly com- 
plimented the Corps for its proficiency in drill, its discipline and 
appearance. The Corps mustered 3 officers and 60 enlisted men. 

On June 16th, the Corps assembled at 9.30 in full dress uniform, 
and knapsacks packed to take part in the Centennial Celebration 
of the Battle of Bimker Hill, fought June 17th, 1775. The line 
was formed promptly at 10 o'clock in the following order: 



♦See page 268. 
tSee page 199. 



1875 VISIT TO BOSTON .^^-j- 

Ringgold Band of Reading, 28; Drum Corps, ]()■ Citizens Com- 
mittee, 15; Staff Officers, 5; Commissioned Officers, 3; Enlisted 
Men, 68. Total, 129. 

The Corps left the Armory and proceeded down Race to 11th, 
to Vine Street, passing the residence of Captain Robert Epstein 
of the Staff, who had been stjriously ill ; thence to Broad, to Arch, 
to 17th Street, to depot, where they entrained for New York. Ar- 
riving at that City shortly after 2 o'clock, they marched to the 
piers of the Stonington Steamboat Company, where passage had 
been secured on the handsomely furnished steamer Narragansett, 
the Fencibles being assigned the ladies cabin. As they did not 
leave until 5 o'clock, a number of the members took a stroll through 
the City. Late in the afternoon the 1st Regiment arrived and were 
assigned the forward portion of the boat. The boat ride to Stoning- 
ton was one full of interest and pleasant recollections, particularly 
the midnight steamboat race between our boat and a sister boat of 
the same line, and although our boat was the heavier loaded we 
came in first, probably owing to the immense amount of steam and 
enthusiasm generated by our men, which no doubt encouraged the 
officers. On arriving at Stonington about one o'clock, cars were 
taken to Boston, where they arrived at 6 o'clock on the morning 
of the 17th, after being 19 hours on the trip. Upon arriving they 
were met by the Officers of the Boston Fusileers and escorted to 
Nassau Hall, where th- quarters of the Corps were established. 
They then sat doMH to breakfast, and judging from the appetites 
displayed it was no wonder that the tables were easily cleared. The 
caterer was not in the least disappointed with his part of the pro- 
gram. At 10 o'clock the Corps was formed and marched to the 
Boston Commons to take its place in line. They paraded over a 
very long route until after 12 o'clock. It was one continuous 
ovation, which showed that there were in Boston many admirers of 
military discipline and drill. One of the Boston critics comment- 
ing in his paper said: 

The marching of the Fencibles was fine, with a gusto air of 
superiority doubtless born by the possession of the Champion Colors 
of their State which they carried in their line. 

The comments that were loudly given by the spectators along the 
route amply repaid the boys for the labor they had had to make 
themselves as near perfect as possible. The enthusiasm and liber- 



218 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1875 

ality displayed by every one along the entire route was beyond 
description, and in perfect accord with the lavishing display of 
decorations. The people everywhere outdid themselves, it did 
not seem as if their liberality would stop, such was their un- 
bounded enthusiasm, that wherever the line halted showers of 
oranges, bananas, lemons, and sandwiches, greeted the troops from 
all the windows, as well as pleasant smiles from the ladies, w^ho in 
nearly all cases proved to be the doners. A most beautiful sight 
was witnessed on Columbian Ave., a very wide thoroughfare where 
an immense stand was erected filled with thousands of small chil- 
dren, dressed in white with red and blue ribbons, and each waving 
a small American flag. It was a sight once seen, would never be 
forgotten. 

After the procession had been dismissed, the Fusileers escorted 
the Corps to their quarters, where they were dismissed for the day. 
After partaking of a dinner, in which the Officers of the Fusileers 
were our guests, the boys were taken to see some of the sights of 
Boston. The Officers were taken in charge by the Officers of the 
Fusileers, and introduced to some of the prominent citizens. Sev- 
eral clubs were visited, and during the night a midnight entertain- 
ment was inaugurated at the Corps headquarters, where none but 
Fencibles and Fusileers were admitted; this will ever be vividly 
remembered by all who had the good fortune to be present ; it was 
one of the features of the Bunker Hill trip. 

The morning of the 18th proved very disagreeable, cloudy with 
occasional showers; but at 10 o'clock the Fusileers appeared at the 
Corps headquarters, prepared to escort them to the depot to take 
the cars for Chelsea Beach, where they were to entertain the Corps 
at the Ocean House, a very prominent watering place, to a clam 
bake. After an hour's enjoyment, at different amusements, the 
order "fall in" was given, and both Companies combining, the 
files alternating. They then marched into the spacious dining room 
and were seated. Captain Snow, of the Fusileers, presided at the 
table. After doing ample justice to the good things set before them 
the Company was called to order by the Captain, welcoming the 
Corps to the hospitalities of the Fusileers. Then followed speeches 
made by Captain Ryan, Judge Wm. D. Kelley, Charles Keyser, 
Esq., Lieutenants Packer and Stewart, and Captain Deviney, of the 
Corps, and Capts. G. G-. Nichols and Proctor, and others of the 
Fusileers. After the close of the entertainment the line of march 



1875 PKESENTATION OF (iOLD WATCH -Jl!) 

was taken up for the train, nearly a mile distant over a meadow. 
When half way over the party was caught in a drenching shower, 
later reaching Boston they marched to their quarters. The time 
having approached to take the train for home, the Corps was 
obliged to decline an invitation from a prominent citizen to partake 
of his hospitality, and they marched to the depot just in time for 
the train at 6 o'clock, where they were met by the 1st Regiment, 
N. G. P., who gave them a grand reception, one never to be for- 
gotten. 

They then started on the return trip home, via New York, ar- 
riving on the morning of tlie lJ)th. and after a short parade, arrived 
at the Armory and were dismissed, all being well pleased with their 
trip to Boston. 

On June 25th, the Commissioned and Staff Officers assembled at 
the Armory this evening and proceeded to the residence of W. El- 
wood Rowan (Common Councilman from West Philadelphia), for 
the purpose of presenting to his daughter, Louisa, a gold watch and 
chain, as a testimonial of their regard and esteem for her father, 
and tendering to him the thanks of the Corps for his efforts and 
assistance to them in making the trip to Boston a success. 

July 5th, Monday, the Corps assembled at the Armory this morn- 
ing in summer uniform, it being the 99th Anniversary of American 
Independence, and proceeded to Fairmount Park to join the Divi- 
sion, for parade and review. The Corps on that occasion mustered: 
Band 20, Commissioned Officers 3, Enlisted men 68; total, 91. 

On July 21st, the Corps went to Creedmoor Park, on the Dela- 
ware River, below Tacony. for target practice. When the firing was 
ended, they, with a number of invited guests, sat down to a sumptu- 
ous dinner. Many speeches were made. During the afternoon the 
members enjoyed themselves with their lady friends, boating and 
fishing, and some at a ball game. Late in the afternoon they 
took the boat and returned to the City. 

On the evening of October 27th, the annual muster and inspec- 
tion took place. Gen. James W. Latta, Adjt. Gen., Brig. Gen. John 
P. Bankson and Staff, and a large number of friends were present. 
After inspection, an exhibition drill was given, consisting of manual 
of arms, company movements, fixing and unfixing bayonets, and 
the silent drill. The Corps on this occasion mustered 3 officers and 
76 enlisted men. 

November 25th. was Thanksgiving Day, and the occasion of 



220 <^NE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1875 

a division parade, which was reviewed by the Governor, John F. 
Hartranft ; the Mayor of the City, and a number of officials. The 
Corps mustered 92, including the band. 

November 27th, the Corps paraded with the division as escort to 
the remains of Vice President Henry W. Wilson, who was lying in 
state at Independence Hall, and was escorted to the German town 
intersection, where the train was waiting to convey the body to his 
home. The Corps mustered, Band 20, Officers 3, Enlisted men 62. 

On December 24th, the Corps gave a benefit at the Walnut Street 
Theatre, in aid of the Centennial Fund. Between the acts they 
gave an exhibition drill. Miss Charlotte Thompson's rendition of 
Jane Eyre was excellent. The benefit happened on Christmas Eve, 
a very poor night ; but the audience was large and well pleased with 
the entertainment. 

December 31st, the Corps assembled at the Armory in full uni- 
form, to take part in ushering in the New Centennial Year. At 11 
'clock they left the Armory and marched to Independence Square, 
where they arrived at 11.30, after forcing their way through the 
dense crowd. At a few minutes before twelve, a fac simile of the 
flag raised 100 years ago, was hauled into position, by His Honor, 
Mayor Wm. Stokley. Upon its arriving in position, it was saluted 
by the Fencibles firing 13 volleys. Just as they had finished, the 
bell in the tower commenced ringing 100 strokes. The excitement 
and uproar at that moment from such a multitude of people was 
tremendous, and the enthusiasm and good feeling kept up until 
early morning. The crowd in the streets leading to Independence 
Hall was so dense that it was impossible for the Corps, with their 
band, to make any headway, and they were forced to escape by tak- 
ing the small streets back to the Armory, where, upon their arrival, 
they fired three more volleys on their own account. 

The members had previously organized a burlesque parade, and 
after its formation, paraded through some of the principal streets 
creating much amusement. They were also hospitably enter- 
tained at several places. They were accompanied by the Dechert 
State Fencibles Band. The following members participated at the 
ceremonies of the Centennial: 

Dechert State Fencibles Band, 20 ; State Fencibles Drum Corps, 
10. Staff. — Capt. I. Ranck, Lieut. Chas. Ranck, Capt. James Lin- 
nard. Officers. — Capt. J. W. Ryan, Lieuts. E. E. Packer and 
Samuel Stewart. Sergeants. — Chas. Abell, D. R. Porter, Wm. 



1875 MEMBERSHIP OF FENCIBLES 221 

Johnston, Wm. Gear. Corporals. — C. Berger, G. Simpson, IT. Scott, 
J. Stimmel, E. Lawrence, H. Headrick. Privates. — J. Geisenberg, 
W. Wemmer. W. J. Magee, 0. Moore, G. L. Eastman. Geo. 
McCuen, T. Ferguson, S. Barbier, W. W. Worrell. J. 11. 
Guyger, W. H. Barker, Wm. Bower, R. Keegan, M. J. Ging- 
rich, A. Goldberg, L. Theiry, Geo. Beamer, L. McNichol, J. 
Gantly, J. R. Welsh, Theo. Shaffer, J. W. Stone. B. IMeNichol, J. 
Conrad, W. Shubert. J. W. Bratton, H. Reiff, Chas. Miller, A. 
Huston, P. Gormle}', J. R. Heath, J. Hallahan. J. Finnan. Chas. 
Porter; total, 80. 



CHAPTER XIII. 
1876. 

ORGANIZATION OP CENTENNIAL LEGION — ORDERS — REQUEST FROM SPAN- 
ISH CONSUL — ^ARRIVAL OP SPANISH ENGINEERS INCORPORATION OF 

INFANTRY CORPS STATE FENCIBLES — DEATH OF CAPTAIN EPSTEIN — 

OPENING OP CENTENNIAL CENTENNIAL LEGION ARRIVES PARADE 

OF JULY FOURTH— DRESS PARADE OF CENTENNIAL LEGION PRESEN- 
TATION OF WATCH TO MAJ. JOHN W. RYAN HISTORY OF THE 

COMMANDS COMPRISING THE CENTENNIAL LEGION — THE DIVISION 
PARADE OF JULY IOtH, 1876 — NEW HA\rEN GRAYS IN CAMP AT PHIL- 
ADELPHIA DEATPI OF SERGT. W. P. GEER PUTNAM PHALANX LET- 
TER FROM SPANISH CONSUL. 

In the beginning of the year 1876. the Officers of the Corps were 
Captain J. W. Ryan, Lieutenants Packer and Stewart. 

January 10th, a communication was received from Maj. George 
W. McLean, Commander of the Old Guard of New York, asking the 
co-operation of the Fencibles in forming a Centennial Legion, to be 
composed of representative companies from the 18 original states, 
and to meet in Philadelphia on July 4th, and to parade on that occa- 
sion. This was referred to Captain Ryan. Lieutenant Packer and 
Corporal Stimmel. 

On February 17th, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the 
afternoon in full dress uniform to join with Post 2, G. A. R., to at- 
tend the funeral and act as escort to the remains of Col. John K. 
Murphy, an honored member and veteran of the late war. The 
Corps marched to IMount ]\Ioriah Cemetery, where they fired the 
volleys over the soldier's grave. 

Headquarters National Guard of Penna., 
Adjutant General's Of'fice, 
Harrisbitkg, March 8th, 1876. 
Special Orders No. 9. 

********* 

X. Major General John P. Bankson, commanding 1st Division 
National Guard of Pa., is hereby permitted to detach from his 
Division, the "State Fencibles" on July 2d and 4th, 1876, in order 

222 



1876 ORDERS— LETTERS— DEILLS 223 

that said Coiniiany may parade with, and form a jiart of tlie 
* ' Centennial Legion. ' ' 

By command of John F. IIartranft, 

Governor and Coind'r-in-Chief. 
James W. Latta, 

Adjutant General. 

Headquarters First Division N. G. P. 
Phila.^ Mch. 10th, 1876. 
Special Orders No. 5. 

Special Order No. 9, Ildq'r's. N. G. of Pa., having authorized 
the Major General Com'd'g to detach "The Infantry Corps of 
State Fencibles, " Captain John W. Ryan, Com'd'g, from this 
Division on July 2d and 4th, 1876, in order that said company may 
parade with, and form a part of the "Centennial Legion," the 
requisite permission is hereby granted. 

By command of 

AIajor General J. P. Bankson. 
C. C. Knight, 

Lt. Col. and A. A. G. 
At the regular drill of the Corps, i\Iarch 9th, the following com- 
munication was received : 

Consulate of Spain, 
524 Walnut St., 
Philada., March 9th, 1876. 
Sir: 

The services of yourself and command are respectfully solicited, 
to receive and escort a company of Military Engineers proceeding 
from Spain with the cflbject of participating in the Centennial 
Celebration in this city. Said distinguished soldiers are ex- 
pected to arrive in this city on Saturday or Alonday next. 

A favorable answer would be received with great satisfaction 
by, Yours truly, 

Juan Morphy, 
Consul of Sijain. 
After the drill a special meeting was held, at which the Corps' 
action, in reference to the above invitation, caused the following 
answer : 

Headquarters Infantry Corps State Fencibles, 
Philada., March 10th, 1876. 
Hon. Juan Morphy, 
Consul of Spain. 
Sir: 

Your favor of yesterday was received and submitted to the 
Corps of State Fencibles, at a special meeting held last evening, 
and 1 am happy to inform you that thoy have by a unanimous vote 



224 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

directed me to tender to you the services of the Command for the 
purpose mentioned in your note. 

With great respect, 

Your obedient servant, 

John W. Ryan, 

Captain. 

On March 13th, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the morn- 
ing for the purpose of giving an escort to the Corps of Spanish En- 
gineers, who had arrived in this Country, to take part and conduct 
the exhibit of Spain, in the Centennial Exhibition. Marching to the 
New York Depot at 32nd and Market Streets, they received the 
Engineers and escorted them to the Armory, accompanied by Beck 's 
Philadelphia Band, where a collation was spread. They were a 
very sociable body of young men, and although not understanding 
our language, all became great friends, waltzing together when the 
music played, much to the amusement of their countrymen assem- 
bled. Before leaving the Armory Col. E. W. Greene, of the Tran- 
script, presented them with two beautiful silk Spanish flags. They 
were received by the Spanish Consul, Juan Morphy, in their behalf. 
The Officer in command of the engineers then stepped forward and 
presented one to the Fencibles, as an offering from the Engineers. 
They then formed in line and were escorted to their temporary 
quarters at the Washington Hotel. 

The engineers were under the command of Col. Don Juan Jose 
Marin, and were composed of the following : 

Sergeants. — Damions Balania, Valentine Perer. Corporals. — 
Julien Piafall Goner, Vicanto Pajarer, Fere Pajarer, Manuel He- 
nani, Segundo Suntabanba. Privates. — Precardo Haner, Lorenro 
Lasaro, Lorenro Forat, Diago Larvotice, Fere Ma Gonsaler, Hicano 
Sanolice, Santiago Fuenteo, Manuch Diaz, Giamon FonoUora, En- 
sigue Pera, Camuto Sainz, Antonio De Inora, Zulien Gourater, An- 
tonio Zernander, Antonio Mainz, Line Aruco. 

Most of them were from families of rank in Spain, and all were 
then serving in the Spanish Army. 

On March 13th, Captain Ryan reported that the Corps had re- 
ceived the following charter : 

Charter 

OF THE 

Infantry Corps State Eencibles. 
Be it known that we whose names are hereunto subscribed and 
our associates, citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, re- 



1876 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION 

siding in the City of Philadelphia, iiave associated ourselves to- 
gether and formed and organized a Society or Company for the 
purpose of aiding and benefitting its members and securing their 
proficiency in tiie Military science and for social enjoyments, and 
do declare that we, our associates and such persons as may from 
time to time become members, and our and their successors are 
desirous of acquiring and enjoining the powers, immunities and 
privileges of a corporation or body politic in law and in fact, the 
name, style, title, objects, articles and conditions, whereof are as 
follows, viz: 

Abtjcle I — Name and Style. 

The name and style of the said Corporation shall be: "The 
Infantry Corps State Fencibles. " 

Article II — Objects. 

The object and purposes of the Corporation are to aid and ben- 
efit its members and to secure their proficiency in the Military 
science and for social enjoyments. 

Article III— The Place Where Located. 

This Corporation shall be located and transact all its business 
in the City of Philadelphia. 

Article IV — Term. 
This Corporation shall have perpetual succession. 

Article V — Officers. 

The business of the Corporation shall be managed and conducted 
by a President, a Vice-President, a Secretary and a Treasurer, 
with a Board of Directors, consisting of six members of the Cor- 
poration and such other officers, agents and factors as the Cor- 
poration may authorize for that purpose. 

The said Directors for the first year who shall serve as such 
until others are chosen and qualified in their stead under the By- 
laws of the Corporation shall be as follows, viz : Robert E. Patti- 
son, Charles Berger, David B. Porter, John W. Ryan, Edward E. 
Packer, Samuel J. Stewart, all of whom reside in the City of 
Philadelphia. 

Article VI — Property. 

The property of the Corporation shall consist of Real and Per- 
sonal property of the said City of Philadelphia; the clear yearly 
value or income whereof shall not exceed twenty thousand dollars. 

15 



'SZO 



226 O^^E HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

Article VII — By-Laws. 

This Corporation may ordain, establish and enforce all By-Laws 
necessary, convenient and proper for conducting and governing its 
affairs. 
And your petitioners will ever pray, etc. 
EoBT. E. Pattison, John W. Bratton, 

John W. Ryan, Capt., Charles B. Miller, 

Charles Berger, A. M. Goldberg, 

Sam 'l J. Stewart, Chas. W. Mecke, 

D. Porter, Andre^v B. Huston, 

Charles A. Abel, J. H. Guyger, 

James Linnard, M. J. Gingrich. 

Corp'l Henry G. Headrich, Jr., John McCormick, 

" James C. Stimmell, P. Gormly, 

" Horace E. Scott, W. F. Shubert, 

" Geo. W. p. Simpson, W. L. Wemmer^ 

" E. H. Lawrence, C. B. Ranck, 

W. Geer, John J. Conrad. 

Geo. L. Eastman, 

City and County of Philadelphia, 
State of Pennsylvania, ss: 

On the seventeenth day of February, A. D. 1876, before me, 
David H. Lane, Recorder of Deeds for the City and County of 
Philadelphia, personally appeared Robert E. Pattison, John W. 
Ryan, Charles Berger, three of the persons whose names are sub- 
scribed to and who executed the foregoing articles of incorpora- 
tion, and severally acknowledged the same to be their act and 
deed respectively, and desired the same might be recorded as such. 
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the 
seal of my said office to be affixed the day and year aforesaid. 

Jos. K. Fletcher, 
(Seal) Deputy Recorder. 

City and County of Philadelphia, 
State of Pennsylvania, ss: 

I, M. Russell Thayer, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, 
No. 4, for the City and County of Philadelphia, do certify that on 
the nineteenth day of February, A. D. 1876, the above Charter and 
the acknowledgment thereof duly certified under the official seal 
of the Recorder of Deeds of said City and County, was presented 
to me, accompanied by proof of publication of notice in two news- 
papers of general circulation, printed in said County for three 
weeks, setting forth briefly the character and objects of the Cor- 
poration to be formed and the intention to make application for 
said Charter as required by the Act of Assembly of the Common- 
wealth of Pennsylvania, approved the twenty-ninth day of April, 



1876 CENTENNIAL LhXJ ION— SPANISH ENGINEERS 227 

A. D. 1874, entitled "An act to provide for the incorporation and 
regulation of certain corporations." That I have perused and ex- 
amined the said instrument and have found the same to be in 
proper form and within the purpose named in the first class, spe- 
cified in the second section of said act. That the objects, articles 
and conditions thereof appear lawful and not injurious to the 
Commonwealth, and on motion of Rooert P. Dechert, Esq., Attor- 
ney for the petitioners, I order and decree that upon the recording 
of said Charter and this order, that the subscribers thereto and 
their associates shall be a corporation for the purposes and upon 
the terms therein stated, 

M. Russell Thayer, 
Judge of Court of Common Pleas No. 4, of Phila. 

Recorded in the office for recording deeds, in and for the City 
and County of Philadelphia, in Charter Book No. 2, page 515, etc. 
Witness my hand and seal of office this eleventh day of March, 
A. D. 1876. 

Jos. K. Fletcher, 
(Seal) Deput}/ Eecorder. 

March 13th, Captain Ryan reported that His Excellency. Gov- 
ernor Hartranft had appointed the Fencibles to represent the State 
of Pennsylvania in the Centennial Legion, which body wonid as- 
semble in Philadelphia July 4th, in honor of the 100th Anniversary 
of American Independence ; the Legion to be composed of one com- 
pany from each of the original 13 States. 

On March 16th, the Corps gave an exhibition drill before a num- 
ber of friends, and the Corps of the Spanish Engineers. After the 
drill the engineers were entertained at Gasslein's Saloon,* Broad 
above Chestnut Street. At a late hour the boys escorted them 
to their ([uarters, in fairly good shape and put them to bed. 
They also attended a hop given by the members, at the Assembly 
Building, 10th and Chestnut Streets, March 22nd, where all en- 
joyed themselves in fine style. 

On March 23rd, the Corps was inspected by Brig. Gen. Russell 
Thayer and Staff, and by his request gave one of their remarkable 
drills, which was loudly applauded by the large audience assem- 
bled. On this occasion the Corps mustered 59 officers and men. 

During the month the Fencibles lost by death three of its oldest 
members, Gabriel Kern, one of the originators of the Corps, aged 



*J. .Joseph Gasslein formerly conducted "The Keg," a Bohemian saloon on Broad 
Street, above Chestnut. 

"The Keg" was a resort much patronized by actors, and Mr. Gasslein was its pro- 
prietor from 1875 until about ten years ago, when its site was sold. Mr. Gasslein was 
an original member of the Order of Elks. 



228 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

8-4 years. John Simes Green, one of the originators and who lived 
in the north western part of the State, aged 82 years. Mr. Green 
was noted as being a very large man ; he stood 6 ft. 3 in., in height, 
and weighed 300 pounds. Also Charles F. Sauter, an old member, 
aged 74 years, at his residence on Green Street. 

April 6th Captain Ryan was unanimously re-elected Captam. 
The election was conducted by Capt. William H. Gaw, of the 2nd 
Brigade Staff; 83 members were present. After the election the 
Corps gave a drill which was witnessed by a number of ladies and 
gentlemen, as well as the Centennial Delegation of English Troops 
who were in our City, all were very highly pleased. After the 
drill, the ladies were entertained wdth singing and music in the 
company parlor, and the English troops were entertained elsewhere. 

On May 3rd, Capt. Robert E. Epstein, who had been ill for some 
time, died at his residence. He was a member of the Honorary 
Staff of the Corps, and was a generous fi*iend, much respected 
by the members of the Corps. 

At a special meeting, May 4th, the decease of Capt. Robert E. Ep- 
stein was announced, and the following action was taken thereon: 

Whereas, We are again called upon by Divine Providence to 
mourn the decease of a fellow-member, who by his generous dis- 
position and good qualities had endeared himself to all who had 
the good fortune to be known by him ; therefore be it 

Mesolved, That in the decease of Captain Robert E. Epstein, 
this Corps has lost one of its warmest and most faithful mem- 
bers, and one who always took the pride in it, such as only could, 
the one that is now mourned for by his former associates. 

Resolved, That the colors of the Corps be draped in mourning 
for thirty days, and the Corps flag, hung at half-staff until after 
the funeral, as a last token of respect to the deceased. 

Resolved, That the above be printed in the Tuhlic Ledger and 
' Sunday Mercury, and that a copy of the same be presented to 

I the family of the deceased. 

Captain A. P. Bloomer, M.D., 
Corporal Charles Berger, 
Captain John W. Ryan, 
Private Harry Beck, 
Captain James Linnard, 

Committee. 

On May 8th, a donation of one thousand dollars was received 
from the executors of the late Col. James Page. 

May 10th, was the day set for the opening of the Centennial Ex- 



1876 OPEN TNG OF THE CENTENNIAL 229 

hibition. It was observed amid the most imposing ceremonies ever 
witnessed in this Country. The ceremonies w^ere grand and many 
distinguished persons attended. 

The exhibition was opened by the President of the United States, 
U. S. Grant, attended by the Emperor Don Pedro, his wife, and 
suite, of Brazil -, as well as the heads of government dt^partments. 
Officers of the Army and Navy of the United States, and many dis- 
tinguished foreigners from all parts of the world. 

One of the prominent features of the opening was the parade of 
the 1st Division N. G-. P., and visiting detachments, w'ho turned out 
in fine style and in large numbers. The Corps mustered the follow- 
ing strength: State Fencibles Band, 20; Drum Corps, 10; Staff, 
3; Commissioned Officers, 3; Enlisted Men, 70. Total, 108. 

On an invitation from the Kiralfy Brothers on May 22nd, the 
Corps attended the opening of their new theatre, the Alhambra l*al- 
ace, Broad below Locust Streets, in full uniform, accompanied by 
the drum corps. The theatre was beautifully decorated and bril- 
liantly illuminated, as was also the concert garden attached to it, 
where concerts were given between the acts. The performance was 
"Around the World in Eighty Days," handsomely mounted and 
elegantly performed, to the satisfaction of a very large audience. 

On May 25th, pursuant to orders from Brigade Headquarters, 
the Corps assembled at the Armory in the evening for inspection, 
by Brigade Inspector Maj. G. P. Eldridge. General Thayer and 
Staff were present. After the inspection and usual drill, a collation 
was partaken of to celebrate the 63rd Anniversary of the Corps, and 
the occasion of opening the company room, which had been re- 
cently refitted and handsomely decorated. The Fencibles Band was 
present and rendered some beautiful selections, they were enjoyed 
by a large gathering of ladies and gentlemen. The Corps mustered : 
band 20, drum corps 10, staff 4, commissioned officers 2, enlisted 
men 66 ; total 100. 

On June 1st, the regular drill of the Corps was held on Broad 
Street, on account of the very hot weather. During the evening, 
by request, they marched to the Bingham House, where they were 
joined by the Ringgold Band of Reading. They then marched with 
the Corps to the Armory, the headquarters of Kadosh Commandry, 
Knight Templers, and there gave the visitors an exhibition drill. 
Quite a number of visitors were entertained in the Armory from all 
parts of the country, who came to visit the Exposition. The parade 



230 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 187G 

of the commandries was the largest and finest ever given in this 
country. 

June 5th : Brig. Gen. Russell Thayer, Commanding the 2nd Brig. 
1st Div. N. G. P., to which the Corps was attached, issued the fol- 
lowing order in reference to the inspection of May 25th : 

Headquarters 2d Brig. 1st Div. N. G. P., 

Philada., June 5th, 1876. 

Special Orders No. 14. 

It is with pleasure that the General commanding the 2(1 Bri- 
gade, publishes, for the information of all concerned, the follow- 
ing extracts from the report of the Brigade Inspector of the recent 
inspection of the State Fencibles. 

' ' The condition of the State Fencibles is highly creditable in 
uniform, equipment, condition of pieces and drill. The men pre- 
sented themselves on parade, giving every indication of thorough 
attention to the preparation for inspection. ' ' 

"The soldierly appearance of the men and the general appear- 
ance of the Corps, was such that your Brigade Inspector publicly 
commended Captain Ryan on the condition of his Command. ' ' 

The Corps paraded 105 men. 

Russell Thayer, 
Brigadier General. 

On June 16th, the Corps reported at the Armory in full dress 
uniform, and marched to the New York Depot, West Philadelphia, 
to receive and escort to their quarters, the Putnam Phalanx, from 
Hartford, Conn., who arrived at 11 o'clock. The visitors were ac- 
companied by their ladies, who were sent to their quarters in con- 
veyances. 

The line of march was then taken up to the Bingham House, at 
11th and Market Streets. The visitors were a fine body of men, 
mostly of mature years, and they wore the Continental uniform ; 
their band was patterned after the Colonial style, and its music of 
the same period, slow time and long step, which required much prac- 
tice to get accustomed to it. As they desired to spend as much time 
as possible in visiting the Exposition, no entertainment was ar- 
ranged for the day. On Sunday morning they were escorted to 
Dr. Boardman's Church, Broad and Arch Streets. In the evening 
they were taken to the tropical garden on Belmont Avenue, near the 
Exposition buildings. On Monday evening they attended the open- 
ing of the Offenbach Concert Garden, Broad and Cherry Streets, 
and enjoyed some elegant music. On Tuesday evening small social 



1876 TUK PUTNAM PHALANX -jiH 

parties were organized, some of which were aeconipauied by tlie 
ladies. 

Wednesday evening the Corps assembled in full dress uniform 
without side arms, to escort the Phalanx and their ladies to 
Kiralfy's Alhambra Palace, accompanied by the band, to witness 
the beautiful extravaganza "A Trip to the Moon." After thfc 
performance they marched to the hotel, where tlie Corps gave 
a Fencible Rocket and bid them good night. On Thursday morning 
they were escorted to the depot, by a delegation of officers and mem- 
bers, and were soon on their way home. 

The Phalanx came to the City for the purpose of visiting the Ex- 
position and brought their families along. Coming unannounced 
they did not expect any civilities. The Fencibles, hearing that they 
had started on their journey, hurriedly got the members together 
and prepared to receive them, as they could not allow such a dis- 
tinguished body to visit our City without extending to them the 
hospitality for which the Corps was so renowned since its organiza- 
tion, and were well satisfied to know that the civilities were appre- 
ciated by the Phalanx and their ladies. 

On June 20th. in accordance with orders from Headquarters, the 
members of the Corps assembled at the Armory at 4 o'clock, in 
dress uniform and white pants, for inspection and muster, by 
Gen. James W. Latta, Adjt. Gen. N. G. P. They marched to Broad 
and Walnut Streets, where the inspection took place. Prior to 
this they gave a drill for the edification of the large assemblage 
of people, who had gathered at the Armory. The Corps mustered 
80 officers and men. The 3rd Infantry, Colonel Ballier, was also 
inspected on the same afternoon and at the same place. The Corps 
returned to the Armory at 7 o'clock well satisfied with the after- 
noon's performance. 

Headqiwrters First Division National Guard Pennsylvania. 

Philadelphia, June 24th, 1876. 
General Orders No. 5. 

I. In obedience to instructions received from Headquarters 
National Guard of Pennsylvania, this Division will parade on the 
Fourth of July next. 

II. The line will be formed at 7.15 A. M., as follows: the 
Cavalry on Broad Street, right resting on Chestnut, facing east, 
the Artillery on the south side of the Public Buildings, right 
resting on Broad Street, facing north. 



232 O'SE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

III. The Second Brigade on Broad Street, right resting on 
Chestnut Street, facing west. Should the line extend below Locust 
Street, the left will be refused, and form on Locust Street, facing 
south. 

IV. The First Brigade will form on Locust Street, right resting 
on Broad Street, facing north. 

V. The privilege is extended to visiting troops who desire to 
take their place in line with such commands of this Division as 
may have them in charge as escort, to do so ; those who are with- 
out escort wiU form on Broad Street, right resting on Locust 
Street, facing west, in such order as the Assistant Adjutant Gen- 
eral of Division may designate on application. 

VI. Commanding Officers of this Division having visiting troops 
as their guests will report at once to these Headquarters, in writ- 
ing, the position desired by them on parade. 

VII. The route of the parade will be hereafter designated; it 
will be short, and will include a review in front of Independence 
Hall. Punctuality in the formation will enable the column to 
move promptly, and add to the comfort of all in line. 

VIII. The following appointments are announced : 

Major Edward De C. Loud, 

Major Samuel B. Huey, as Aides-de-Camp at these 

Headquarters. 
By command of Major General J. P. Bankson. 

Charles C. Knight, 

Lt. Col. and A. A. G. 

Headquarters First Division National Guard Pennsylvania. 

Philadelphia, June 29th, 1876. 
Circular No. 4. 

Paragraph II, of the Circular of June 24th, from Headquarters 
National Guard of Penna., charges the Major General of this Divi- 
sion with "the details of formation, route, arrangement and as- 
signment of troops" on parade on 4th prox. The following in- 
structions are therefore published. 

Should the U. S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps be represented 
in the line, they will form on Broad Street, right resting on Chest- 
nut Street, facing west, under the command of the ranking of- 
ficer present with them, in such order as he may prescribe, and so 
much of paragraph III, G. O. No. 5, C. S., from these Head- 
quarters, as locates the right of the Second Brigade at Chestnut 
Street, is hereby changed to Walnut Street. Should the Centennial 
Legion participate in the parade, they will form on the right of 
the visiting troops on Broad Street, right resting on Locust Street, 
facing west. 

Visiting troops parading without especial escort will form by 
States, on the left of the Centennial Legion, in the following 
order: Virginia, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, New 



1876 ORDERS— CENTENNIAL LEGION 233 

Hampshire, Maryland, Rhode Island, Vermont, District of Co- 
lumbia, Ohio, Michigan and Texas. Where more than one organ- 
ization is present from any State, they will take position in line 
from right to left, according to seniority of the olHeers in com- 
mand in their own service. 

The line will form at 7.15, and command be turned over to Gov- 
ernor Hartranft at 7.45 A. M. 

The foUoM'ing route has been decided upon. From Broad Street 
down Chestnut to 4th, passing in review at Independence Hall, 
down 4th to Pine Street, up Pine Street to Broad. Arriving on 
Broad Street, the Commanding Officer of the leading Brigade will 
form in line, riglit resting on Chestnut Street, facing west. 
The Commanding Officer of the next Brigade will form 
column of fours, and moving north on the west side of the 
roadway halt at Chestnut, and form in line, facing east. Both 
commands will dress as close to the curb as possible, leaving room 
for the column of visiting troops to pass from Pine Street up 
Broad to Chestnut, where they will dismiss without further cere- 
mony. The Division will carry arms during the passage of the 
column, the Brigades relieving each other in paying the honor, 
so as not to unreasonably fatigue the men. 

On reaching 13th and Pine Streets, the Artillery will leave 
the column by way of 13th Street, and form battery front across 
Broad Street below Pine. 

The Headquarters at 1316 Chestnut Street are open daily from 
8 A. M. to 6 P. M., and Commissioned Officers of the Division, 
as well as those of visiting troops, are invited to make use of any 
facilities they may offer. 

By command of Major General J. P. Bankson. 

Charles C. Knight, 

Lt. Col. and A. A. G. 

Headquarters ' ' State Fencjbles, ' ' 

' ' Centennial Legion, ' ' 
Philad'a., July 1st, 1876. 
Circular No. 1. 

The Centennial Legion will form on the right of the visiting 
troops on Broad Street, right resting on Locust Street, facing 
west, in the following order from right to left : 

First Light Infantry Regiment, Rhode Island. 

Clinch Rifles, Georgia. 

Phil. Kearney Guards, New Jersey. 

American Rifles, Delaware. 

Co. from Fifth Maryland Reg't, Maryland. 

Boston Light Infantry, Massachusetts. 

Washington Light Infantry, South Carolina. 

Old Guard, New York. 

Fayetteville Light Infantry, North Carolina. 



234 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

Pirst New Hami^shire Battery, as Infantry, New Hampshire. 

New Haven Grays, Connecticut. 

State Eencibles, Pennsylvania. 

First Light Artillery Blues, Virginia. 

The Legion will form at 7 o 'clock on Tuesday, July 4th. 

John W. Ryan, 
Captain Com'd'g Centennial Legion Co. of Fenna. 

The entire column, composed of troops from all parts of the 
country, was formed in accordance with the General Orders and 
Circular. 

July 3rd, in compliance with arrangements that had been made 
by the Corps to receive the several companies composing the Cen- 
tennial Legion, the members assembled at the Armory in the morn- 
ing, for the purpose of escorting the companies as they arrived, to 
their quarters. The first Corps to arrive was the Providence Light 
Infantry, of Rhode Island, which was unexpectedly met at the New 
York Depot, West Philadelphia, by Lieutenant Packer. They were 
a Battalion of four companies and had chartered a boat to bring 
them here. An accident to the engines compelled them to land in 
New York, where they took the train for Philadelphia. They were 
escorted to our Armory and a place found to stack their arms in 
safety, until the arrival of their boat. After a busy day, in which 
the telegraph was freely used to locate the visitors on the roads, the 
different organizations had been conducted to their quarters. 

The Centennial Legion was formed at the suggestion of Maj. 
George W. McLean, of the Old Guard of New York, and Captain 
Gilchrist of the Washington Light Infantry of South Carolina, and 
were composed as follows : 

The following are the names of the companies of the Legion, with 
date of organization and the states they represent : 

Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry, 1793, North Carolina. 

Boston Light Infantry, 1798, Massachusetts. 

Washington Light Infantry, 1807, South Carolina. 

State Fencibles, 1813, Pennsylvania. 

New Haven Grays, 1816, Connecticut. 

First Light Infantry Regiment, 1818, Rhode Island. 

Old Guard (Veteran Battalion), 1826, New York. 

Norfolk Light Artillery Blues. 1828, Virginia. 

Clinch Rifles, 1852, Georgia. 

Amoskeag Veterans, 185I-, New Hampshire. 



1876 HISTORY OF LEGIONARY COMMANDS •_>;{.-, 

Detail from Fifth Infantry M. N. G., 1866, Maryland. 

Phil Kearney Guards, 1868, New Jersey. 

American Rifles, 1875, Delaware. 

The celebration of the one Inindredth anniversary of the Declara- 
tion of American Independence consisted of a parade of the entire 
First Division of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, and other 
troops from all parts of the country, prominent amon^ whom were 
the organizations from the original thirteen states composing the 
Centennial Legion, which was expressly organized for this Centen- 
nial Celebration, they being selected as the representative military 
organizations from their respective states. A short sketch is given 
with the exception of the State Feucibles, whose history is given in 
full in this book. 

A brief sketch of the several organizations forming the Centen- 
nial Legion is interesting, and is given in the order of their forma- 
tion, as above: 

North Carolina, 1793. 

TJie Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Company. 
This is the oldest organization in the Legion. It was organized 
August 23rd, 1793. The company served in the coast defense dur- 
ing the War of 1812. The uniform worn by the Company was gray, 
trimmed with black and gold, black felt hat with white and red 
plume. Its roster of officers were as follows : Major, Charles 
Haigh; First Captain, W. F. Campbell; Second Captain. A. A. 
McKethan ; Third Captain, J. B. Broadfoot. 

Massachusetts, 1798. 

The Boston Light Infantry. 

This company, known sometimes as the ' ' Boston Tigers, ' ' was or- 
ganized October 18th, 1798. In its ranks have been many of Bos- 
ton's leading merchants and business men. In the late rebellion it 
was the nucleus of the Forty-third Regiment, M. V., which took the 
company name and was known as the "Tiger" regiment. The uni- 
form consists of a dark blue double-breasted coatee with shoulder 
knot, white pants, white bearskin hat with a blue plume, and white 
crossbelts with "tiger" plate. Its officers were: Captain, Nicholas 
N. Noyes; First Lieutenant, George O. Noyes; Second Lieutenant, 
John D. Williams. 



236 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

South Carolina, 1807. 
Washington Light Infantry, of CJiarlesto)i. 

This company was organized in 1807, and its organization grew 
out of the spirit of patriotism caused by the collision between the 
British frigate Leopard, and the U. S. frigate Chesapeake, off the 
Capes of Virginia. In 1824 it was gazetted by the Governor of 
South Carolina with the old "Fusileers Francaises," as the special 
guard of Honor to escort the Marquis de Lafayette into Charleston. 
In 1827, the widow of Colonel William Washington selected this 
corps as the custodian of her husband 's battle-flag. 

In 1836, it made a prompt response to the call of the Govern- 
ment for Military aid, for the protection of the women and children 
of St. Augustine from the torch and tomahawk of the excited Sem- 
inoles, and was among the first that hastened to the point of em- 
barkation. In 1856, the Corps marched to the battlefield of Cow- 
pens; in upper South Carolina, and erected a simple monument, 
which bears on its four sides the names of the leaders in the fight : 
Morgan, Washington, Pickens, Howard. When the war between the 
States was developed, this company was formed into three com- 
panies, and at the close of the struggle the casualties aggregated 
113 dead. 

Maj. R. C. Gilchrist, commanding; First Lieutenant, Robert D. 
Mure; Junior First Lieutenant, George D. Bryan; Second Lieu- 
tenant, John I. Small ; Junior Second Lieutenant, George A. Follin ; 
Chaplain, Rev. A. Toomer Porter; Surgeon, T. Grange Simons, 
M.D., all of whom, excepting Lieutenant Mure, who at that time 
was at school in Europe, served in the Confederate army. 

Connecticut, 1816. 

Netv Haven Grays. 

This Company was organized September 13th, 1816, and was at- 
tached to the 2nd Regiment Connecticut Militia. The first parade 
in full uniform was in May, 1817, with 54 men. In August, 1824, 
the Company paraded 51 men for review by General Lafayette. In 
1836, the Company visited New York, Brooklyn and Newark, camp- 
ing in the latter City, where they celebrated the 60th anniversary of 
our National independence. In 1861, the Company offered its serv- 
ices to Governor Buckingham, under President Lincoln's first call 
for troops, and under its then Captain, E. Walter Osborn, marched 



1876 HISTORY OF LEGIONARY COMMANDS 237 

to the front with the 2nd Regiment, C. V., under Colonel, later Gen. 
Alfred H. Terry, "the hero of Fort Fisher." After the war the 
Company was reorganized and attached to the Second Retgi- 
ment in 1871. The uniform worn during their visit consisted of 
gray coat, trimmed with gold and black, white pants, black shako 
hat and drooping horse hair plume, white cross-belts with epau- 
lettes, with a white flannel blouse for fatigue. The officers of the 
Company were, Captain, E. A. Gessner ; First Lieutenant, L. L, 
Morgan ; Second Lieutenant, S. Carrington. 

Rhode Island, 1818. 

The First Light Infantry Regiment of Providence. 

This Corps was organized May 11th, 1818, as the First Light In- 
fantry Company, and was attached to the Second Regiment R. I. 
Militia. In August, 1826, the Company received the Boston Light 
Infantry, and the same year participated in the obsequies of 
Commodore Perry, at Newport. In 1831, the Companj^ was in ac- 
tual service for the first time, when it was called out to quell a riot, 
four of the rioters being killed by the fire of the second platoon 
In 1832, the State Fencibles of Philadelphia, were received, and a 
new uniform adopted. In 1861, at the call for troops, two com- 
panies responded. Companies C. and D, commanded respectively by 
Capts. ^Y. W. Brown and N. W. Bro^^^l. These were full companies 
of one hundred and ten men each, and furnished their own equip- 
ments and overcoats, and were attached to the First Rhode Island 
Regiment, commanded by Col. A. E. Burnside, and every regiment 
that the State afterward sent into the service had one or more rep- 
resentatives from the Infantry, filling various positions, from that 
of private to Major General. In 1872, the regimental formation 
was adopted, and although designated and officered as a regiment, 
it was in reality only a Battalion of four companies. The uniform 
of the Corps consisted of a high black bearskin hat, scarlet coat, witli 
white and gold trimmings, light blue pants with white stripes, and 
white cross-belts. The following was a partial roster of officers: 
Colonel. R. H. I. Goddard; Lieutenant Colonel E. B. Bullock; 
Major, James E. Chace; Adjutant, C. Henry Barney; Captains, 
Jos. H. Kendrick, E. Frank Annable. William Frankland, Edwin 
Draper. 



238 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1876 

New York, 1826. 

The Old Guard. 

This Company was organized by Col. Wm. W. Tompkins in 1826, 
as the ''Tompkins Blues," so named in honor of Governor D. D. 
Tompkins. The members were very successful in making it what 
it was originally intended to be — a first-class company. In 1833, in 
consequence of much rivalry with another company who had 
adopted the same name and uniform, the Company changed its 
name to "Light Guard" and its uniform to red, which was its dis- 
tinctive dress for ten years. Then it was changed to a white dress- 
coat and blue trousers. In 1860, the Company elected Wm. G. 
Tompkins, a son of their first commandant, to the Captaincy, and 
become identified with the 71st Regiment as Company A, and the 
"Light Guard" as an independent organization existed no more. 
In 1868, the veterans of the "Light Guard" and the "City Guard" 
formed a veteran Battalion and christened it the "Old Guard," 
selecting as their legend "de novo juventutetn agimiis/' we renew 
our youth once more — and adopting the last uniform of the ' ' Light 
Guard," i. e., the bearskin shako, white coat, and light blue pants. 
The officers of the Battalion were Maj. George W. McLean, com- 
manding; First Captain, L. D. Buckley; Second Captain, J. T. 
Hatfield; Senior First Lieutenant, Gustavus A. Fuller; Junior 
First Lieutenant, Thomas F. Morris ; Senior Second Lieutenant, 
Benjamin Gurney ; Junior Second Lieutenant, Charles G. Price. 

Virginia, 1828. 

Norfolk Light Artillery Blues. 

This Company was organized February 22nd, 1828, Miles King 
being Captain, and it at once took a leading position among the 
military of the State, which position it maintained until the break- 
ing out of the Rebellion. On the 18th of April, 1861, the battery- was 
mustered into the Southern Army. In the spring of 1864, they were 
captured by the Union forces in front of Petersburg. Fifty-eight 
men and officers were taken and remained in confinement until the 
close of the war. In consequence of the laws prohibiting the or- 
ganization of military companies in the Southern States after the 
close of the war, the surviving members of the company formed 
themselves into a benevolent organization for the purpose of ad- 
ministering to the wants of the widows and orphans of those who 



1876 HISTORY OF LEGIONARY COMMANDS 23il 

were killed or died in the service. In 187], the prohibition being 
removed the company was reorganized with sixty-one members. 
The officers of the company were. Captain, Samuel Hodges ; Senior 
First Lieutenant, R. Frank Vaughan ; Junior First Lieutenant, 11. 
V. Moore ; Second Lieutenant, H. C. Whitehead. The imiform was 
a gray coat and pants trimmed with red. United States regulation 
cap, gray, with red plume, and they were armed with artillery 
sabres. 

Georgia, 1852. 

The Clinch Rifles. 

This company belongs to Augusta, Georgia, and was organized 
March 22nd, 1852, named after a distinguished soldier of the 
Florida wars — Gen. Duncan L. Clinch. The company served dur- 
ing the war, under Capt. C. S. Piatt, being attached to the First 
Regiment Georgia Volunteers. The uniform of this company was 
a frock coat of dark green cloth trimmed with gold lace (brass 
scales and green and gold fringe for epaulettes), pants of the same 
material, a military' cap of green cloth trimmed with gold lace 
and a black ostrich plume. The officers of the Company were: 
Captain Frank G. Ford; First Lieutenant, W. F. Gary; Second 
Lieutenant, B. D. Jones ; Third Lieutenant, James D. Cole ; Ensign, 
Geo. W. Calvin. The Company paraded about sixty men and car- 
ried a State flag presented by the Governor in the name of the 
State of Georgia. 

New Hampshire, 1854. 

The Amoskeag Veterans. 

This company, which belongs to ]\Ianchester, N. H.. was organized 
in 1854. In December, 1855, the Corps visited Washington, D. C, 
under command of Colonel Charles E. Potter, and were received 
by the military organizations and authorities of the City. They 
were the special guests of General Pierce, who was at that time 
President of the United States. The Corps was organized as a Bat- 
talion of two companies, and was uniformed in the old style Conti- 
nental uniform of cocked hat, swallow-tail coat with white facings, 
and knee breeches. The officers of the Battalion were Major com- 
manding, M. V. B. Edgerly ; Company A — Captain, D. A. Simons ; 
First Lieutenant, H. C. Merrill; Second Lieutenant, E. C. Shirley. 



240 <^NE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLKS 1876 

Company B — Captain, James F. Briggs; First Lieutenant, Z. F. 
Campbell; Second Lieutenant, E. H. Hobbs. 

Maryland, 1866. 

Detail of Fifth Infantry. 

The representation from Maryland was composed of a company of 
one hundred men from the celebrated Fifth Regiment of Infantry, 
which was organized in 1866. This regiment was ranked as one of 
the best National Guard Regiments in the United States, and 
the company composed of the best material in the regiment, 
officered as follows, viz : Captain, H. D. Loney (colonel of the 
regiment) ; First Lieutenant, George R. Gaither (major) ; Second 
Lieutenant, W. P. Zollinger (senior captain) ; Third Lieutenant, 
Robert P. Brown (second captain) ; Fourth Lieutenant, John D. 
Lipscomb (third captain). The uniform was gray, trimmed with 
black and gold. The company carried Pulaski's banner and the 
colors that were carried by Smallwood's Maryland Regiment at 
the battle of Long Island in 1777. 

New Jersey, 1868. 

Phil. Kearney Guards. 

This company came from Elizabeth, N. J., was organized Septem- 
ber 2nd, 1868, and was attached to the Third Regiment, N. G. S. 
N. J. The uniform was gray trimmed with black and gold. Cap- 
tain W. H. DeHart was in command. 

Delaware, 1875. 
The American Rifles. 

This company was organized January 1st, 1875. in Wilmington, 
and was M^ell-drilled and disciplined. It had, in addition to the 
State ensign, a silk flag that was taken from the field after the 
battle of Brandywine, in September, 1777. The uniform of the 
company consisted of a dark blue, single-breasted coat, trimmed 
with white, white epaulettes, dark blue pants, white M'aist belts 
and shako hat with plume. The officers of the company were: 
Captain, Samuel M. Wood; First Lieutenant, John P. Edwards, 
Jr. ; Second Lieutenant, Frederic L. Buckmaster. 



1876 THE FLAG OF THE LEGION 241 

The Eutaw Flag. 

The colors of the Legiou were the Colonial flag, the U. S. colors 
and the celebrated Eutaw flag. 

The latter flag belongs to the Washington Light Infantry, of 
Charleston, S. C, and has a very interesting history. In 1827, the 
widow of Col. Wm. Washington, of the Revolution, selected this 
company to be the custodian of her husband's battle-flag, "Tarle- 
ton's Terror," and from that time to the present it has never been 
out of the possession of the company. The flag is a square of crim- 
son brocade, 26 by 30 inches, embroidered with laurel wreath and 
flowers, surmoimted by an eagle, with his talons clutched over the 
motto, "S. P. Q. R." During his Carolina campaign Colonel Wash- 
ington made a very hasty visit to Miss Jane Elliott, afterwards Mrs. 
Wm. Washington, who learned that he had no flag for his troop. 
She seized her scissors and cut out the crimson square of silk which 
embellished the back of a chair near by, saying : ' ' Let this be your 
flag!" 

On the morning of July 4th, 1876, Lieutenant Packer was de- 
tailed to escort the Fayetteville Light Infantry, Phil. Kearney 
Guards, Clinch Rifles, and Norfolk Light Artillery Blues, from 
their quarters in West Philadelphia, to the position of the Legion 
on South Broad Street, where it was to form. 

The entire division then took up the line of march over the 
route laid out. The Legion proved to be a great feature of the 
parade, and was given an ovation along the entire route. The day 
was intensely hot and after the parade, all turned in to cool off 
and keep quiet until early in the evening when the officers and 
members took hold of their guests and did their utmost to make 
the visit enjoyable. 

The Corps mustered on this parade 108 officers and men. 

The Centennial Legion was assigned the right of the visiting 
troops, who had no escorts, and immediately in the rear of the 1st 
Division National Guard of Pennsylvania. 

The Legion, previous to taking its position in line, was formed 
in accordance with orders issued by Captain John W. Ryan, com- 
manding the State Fencibles, the Legionary Company of Pennsyl- 
vania, and were by special orders No. 5, from Hdqrs. 1st Div. N. 
G. P., dated March 10th, 1876, detached for that day from the First 

16 



242 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

Division N. G. P., so as to parade and form part of the Centennial 
Legion. 

The military display was the largest and most magnificent 
ever seen in this City. The Army and Navy was represented, 
as well as the volunteer organizations throughout the country. They 
consisted of troops composed of material of which any country 
might feel proud. All branches of the service were represented, 
and many of the regiments in line, from this City as well as abroad, 
displayed the very perfection of military discipline and drill, and 
soldierly bearing generally. 

The streets through which the military passed were overcrowded 
with spectators, notwithstanding the fierce rays of the July sun, 
and their patience and fortitude were rewarded by witnessing a 
display of arms such as will probably not be vouchsafed them again 
in this City for many years to come. 

At the conclusion of the route of the parade, the line was re- 
viewed at Broad and Chestnut Streets by Governor Hartranft, just 
before the various organizations were dismissed. Earlier in 
the day the line was reviewed by General Sherman and Gen- 
eral Hawley, from the small stand erected directly in front of 
Independence Hall, and on this stand were the following named dis- 
tinguished personages : General Saigo, of the Japanese Centennial 
Commission ; Colonel Marin, of Spain ; Mr. John Fernie, of Eng- 
land ; Captain Ulner, Lieutenant Brusivitz and Paymaster Asbrink, 
of the Swedish frigate Balder; Captain Ankarkrona and Lieuten- 
ant Passe, of the Swedish corvette Norrkopping; the Governor of 
Maine and Colonel Richards, General Cilley, General Tilden, and 
other members of his Staff; ex-Governor Bigler, of Pennsylvania; 
Governor R. J. Lippitt, of Rhode Island; Hon. Christ. C. Cox, 
Lieutenant Governor of Maryland; Rev. Dr. Cuyler, of Brooklyn, 
L. I. ; John Welsh, Esq., President of Centennial Board of Finance ; 
Thomas Cochran, Esq., of Board of Finance; John Wanamaker, 
Esq., and a large number of the members of the Centennial Commis- 
sion. There were also upon the platform a number of foreign Cen- 
tennial Commissioners, Military and Naval officers, members of 
City Councils and prominent citizens generally. It took about one 
hour and thirty minutes for the parade to pass the reviewing stand, 
and many of the more prominent regiments were loudly cheered as 
they passed. 

The Military formed on Broad Street, displaying southwardly, 



1876 ORDER OF PROCESSION 243 

and while many of the regiments and battalions formed on side 
streets, the line stretched down Broad Street as far as Christian. 
By seven o'clock the various organizations commenced arriving on 
the ground, and at 9.15 precisely, the line moved down Chestnut 
Street to Fourth (passing the State House in review), down Fourth 
to Pine, up Pine to Broad. On arriving at Broad Street th(! com- 
manding officers of the leading brigades formed in line, tlie right 
resting on Chestnut Street, facing west. 

The commanding officer of the next brigade formed his men in 
columns of four, and moved northward on the west side, and halting 
at Chestnut Street, formed into line facing east, and the visiting 
troops passed through to the lines and were then dismissed. 

The following is a detailed statement of the formation and ap- 
pearance of this great military display : 

Order of Procession. 

Gov. John F. Hartranft and Staff, mounted. 
Major General John P. Bankson and Staff, as follows : 
Lieut. Col. C. C. Knight, A. A. G. 
Lieut. Col. B. W. Harper, Inspector. 
Surgeon, Edward Shippen. 
Paymaster, B. K. Jamison. 
Quartermaster, H. K. Ziegler. 
Judge Advocate, Frank W. Paul. 
Commissary, Edwin North. 
Majors, Samuel N. Lewis, Edwin L. Tevis. 

Aides-de-Camp, Walter G. Wilson, Silas W. Pettit, William 
Howell, William S. Kimball, William F. Lewis, George Ber- 
nard, E. D. Loud, Samuel B. Huey. 
First City Troop — Captain, M. Edward Rogers; First Lieutenant, 
A. L. Snowden ; Second Lieutenant, Joseph L. Wilson ; Cor- 
net, John Hockley, Jr.; Surgeon, F. F. Maury, M.jJ. The 
Troop paraded 45 men. 
Black Hussars — Captain, Christopher Kleinz; First Lieutenant, 

Wm. S. Osier; Mounted band. Thirty men. 
Keystone Battery — Captain, S. B. Poulterer; First Lieutenant, 
Oliver Winchester; Second Lieutenant, J. Dorsey Ash. Six 
pieces artillery. 
Brigadier General Russell Thayer and Staff, as follows: Major 
Galloway C. Morris, A. A. G.; Major George P. Eldridge, In- 
spector; Quartermaster, A. D. Hepburn; Surgeon, George 
White; Captains Gaw and Townsend. 
Cadets from the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, under 
command of Commandant Thomas H. Neill; Surgeon, B. J. D. 
Irwin; Adjutant, James A. Manly; Quartermaster, George K. 



244 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

Hunter; Sergeant-Major, John Glass; Quartermaster-Ser- 
geant, Thomas Patterson. 

Co. A, under First Lieutenant, J. F. Stretch, U. S. A. ; Cadet 
Captain, Walter Fisk ; Cadet Lieutenants, Biglow, Hoppin and 
Todd, 62 cadets. Co. B, Lieutenant A. L. Morbon, U. S. A.; 
Cadet Captain, Springett; Cadet Lieutenants, Parker, Bax- 
ter and Brown, 65 cadets. Co. C, Lieutenant O. L. Hine, 
U. S. A. ; Cadet Captain, Gordon ; Cadet Lieutenants, Mas- 
sey, Price and Bradley, 70 cadets. Co. D, Lieutenant J. M. 
R. Davis, U. S. A.; Cadet Captain, Thorington; Cadet Lieu- 
tenants, Oreal, Black and Haden. The Corps was accom- 
panied by the full West Point Band and Drum Corps, and 
presented an admirable appearance. 

United States Marines from League Island, Lieutenant Smyzer, 
Navy Yard Band, 90 men. 

Third Regiment N. G. P., Col. John F. Ballier; Lieut. Col. Hugh 
Rodgers; Major Fritz Eholicher; Quartermaster John Mc- 
Bride; Surgeon, Thos. A. McLean. 

The Regiment had a full band and drum corps, and the com- 
panies averaged thirty men each, and were commanded as 
follows: Co. A, Capt. Jacob Greisheimer; Co. B, Capt. Mar- 
tin Callahan; Co. C, Capt. Herman Geil; Co. D, Capt. M. Don- 
nelly; Co. E, Capt. James F. Rogers; Co. F, Capt. Robert J. 
Barr; Co. G, Capt. Thos. F. Dunleavy; Co. H, Capt. Thos. 
Furey; Co. I, Capt. Chris. Strohmetz; Co. K, Capt. Geo. P. 
Mitchell. 

Sixth Regiment N. G. P. — Colonel, John Maxwell; Lieut. Col., 
P. J. Sunger; Major, C. K. Karcher, Jr.; Adjutant, Louis 
Cromwell; Quartermaster, Joseph Hirst; Surgeon, W. Lovell 
Dodge. 

The regiment averaged 35 men to a company, and had a band of 
24 pieces, and a drum corps of 30 pieces. The companies were 
officered as follows: Co. A, Captain, Peter B. Chadwick; Co. 
C, Captain, Andrew Jackson; Co. C, Captain, Charles K. Kurs- 
ner; Co. D, Captain, John Miller; Co. E, Captain, George W. 
Clark; Co. F, Captain, John B. Groves; Co. G, Captain 
Horatio B. Hackett ; Co. H, Captain, Charles McKnight. 

Gray Invincibles (colored), Capt. Jones, 44 men and 3 commis- 
sioned officers. Band of 19 pieces. 

Veteran Guards of New York (colored), Major, James B. Lee; 79 
men and drum corps. 

Brigadier General, Robert M. Brinton and Staff, as follows: 
Major, Thompson Lennig, A. A. G. ; Major, Alfred Cromlier, 
Inspector; Quartermaster, John Wright, Captain Matthews. 

Second Regiment N. G. P., Colonel, Peter Lyle; Major, John A. 
Gorgas; Quartermaster, John A. Harris; Surgeon, Kingston 
Goddard, M.D. 

The regiment had a full band of 50 pieces and a drum corps. 



1876 ORDER OF PROCESSION 

Co. A, Captain, John S. Durang, 3 officers, 43 men; Co. B, Cap- 
tain, John W. Barnes, 2 officers, 21 men; Co. C, Captain, 
Charles F. Sauter, 1 officer, 29 men; Co. I), Wm. B. Strang, 
2 officers and 30 men; Co. E, Captain, Peter H. Jacobus, 3 
officers, 33 men; Co. F, Captain, Vin. P. Donnelly, 2 of- 
ficers, 30 men; Co. G, Captain, Louis F. Clark, 3 officers and 
26 men; Co. H, Captain, Chas. W. Smith, 2 officers, 21 men; 
Co. I, Captain, John D. Kise, 2 officers, 29 men. 
United Train Artillery, Providence, R. I., Colonel Clark; Amer- 
ican Cornet Band and 80 men. The corps presented a fine ap- 
pearance. 
Detroit National Guard, Captain O'Keefe; guests of Second Regi- 
ment; 60 men and band of 26. This was the only com- 
pany from the west and were well drilled. 
First Regiment N. G. P. (Gray Reserves). This regiment, which 
paraded over 500 men all told, was preceded by the Vet- 
eran Corps of the Gray Reserves, under command of Colonel 
Smith, and looked admirably. 
The regiment had Beck's full regimental band of 50 pieces and a 
drum corps of 40. The regiftient had 10 companies in line, 
averaging 32 men each, and was officered as follows: Colonel, 
R. Dale Benson; Lieutenant Colonel, J. Ross Clark; Major, 
Charles K. Ide; Adjutant, Joseph R. Godwin; Quartermaster, 
A. Haverstick. 
Company A, Captain, W. A. Gilpin; Company B, Captain, Thomas 
J. Dunn; Company C, Captain, Wm. W. Allen; Company D, 
Captain, T. B. Wiedersheim; Company E, Captain, James Mul- 
doon; Company F, Captain, T. E. Huffington; Company G, 
Captain, C. H. Kreshmar; Company H, Captain, Albert H. 
Walters; Company I, Captain, Rudolph Klauder; Company 
K, Captain, Isidor Cromelien. 
Twenty-.second N. Y. N. G. (guests of the First Regiment), Col- 
onel Camp. This fine regiment paraded a battalion of five 
companies, numbering in all 235 men. The corps was ac- 
companied by Gilmore's full regimental band and a drum 
corps. 
Albany Zouave Cadets, Captain, John H. Reynolds; 50 men and 

full band and drum corps. 
Weccacoe Legion, Captain, John P. Denny, 50 men and band. 
Co. D, First Regiment N. G., Washington, D. C, 36 men. Cap- 
tain, M. R. Thorp. 
Co. A, Washington Light Infantry, Washington, D. C, Col. Wm. 

J. Moore, 40 men. 
Harrisburg City Grays, 48 men, full band, Capt. Thomas Maloney. 
Washington Grays, Lieutenant Aaron Lazarus; 50 men and drum 

corps. 
Pierce Light Guard of Boston, Captain, H. B. Clapp; Lieuten- 
ants, Cunningham and Pray; 55 men; First Light Guard 



245 



246 ONE HUNDEED YEAR8 WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

Band. This Comijaiiy was attached to the Fourth Battaliou 
M. V. M. "Boston Tigers," known as the Boston Light 
Infantry, Captain Noyes; Medford Band; 60 men; also be- 
longed to the Eourth Battalion M. V. M. 

Centennial Legion. 

The Centennial Legion was composed of the following organiza- 
tions : 

Light Infantry, Ehode Island, Colonel Goddard. 

Clinch Eifles, Georgia, Captain Ford. 

Phil. Kearney Guards, New Jersey, Captain Dellart. 

American Eifles, Delaware, Captain Wood. 

Battalion from Fifth Maryland Eegiment, Maryland, Colonel 
Loney. 

Boston Light Infantry, Massachusetts, Captain Noyes. 

Washington Light Infantry, South Carolina, Major Gilchrist. 

Old Guard, New York, Major McLean. 

Fayetteville Light Infantry, North Carolina, Major Haigh. 

Amoskeag Veterans, New Hampshire, Major Edgerly. 

New Haven Grays, New Haven, Captain Gessner. 

State Fencibles, Pennsylvania, Captain John W. Ryan. 

First Light Artillery Blues, Virginia, Captain Hodges. 

The Centennial Legion was to have been commanded by Major 
General Burnside, but in his absence General Heath, of Eich- 
mond, Va., was in command, with Colonel G. H. Allen, of the 
Marine Artillery of Ehode Island, as Chief of Staff. 

Virginia National Guard. The Virginia troops consisted of the 
West Augusta Guards, of Staunton, Captain W. L. Bum- 
gardner, 40 men and drum corps; Companies A, B and C, of 
the First West Virginia Eegiment, numbering 45 men to a 
company, under command of Colonel Albert Ordway. 

Seventh Eegiment, N. Y. S. N. G., Colonel, Emmons Clark; Lieu- 
tenant Colonel, Stephen 0. Eyder; Major, George Moore 
Smith ; Adjutant, Louis Fitzgerald ; Surgeon, Moreau Morris, 
M.D. ; Quartermaster, Eobert M. Weed. 

The regiment presented a splendid appearance, numbering in all 
644 men. A regimental band of 60 pieces, and drum corps of 
50, accompanied the ' ' Glorious Seventh. ' ' The companies were 
officered as follows: 
Company A, Captain Eichard Allison, 38 men ; Company B, Cap- 
tain Charles S. Van Orden, 68 men ; Company C, Captain D. 
Alonzo Pollard, 43 men; Company D, Captain William H. 
Kipp, 40 men; Company E, Captain George P. Barrett, 42 
men; Company F, Captain Henry B. Turner, 40 men; Com- 
pany G, Captain James C. Abrams, 42 men ; Company H, Cap- 
tain George Wm. Smith, 66 men ; Company I, Captain Wm. 
C. Casey, 67 men; Company K, Captain Joseph Sentillion, 
: 76 men. 



1876 ORDER OF PROCESSION 

Twenty-third Regiment N. Y. S. N. G., Col. Rodney C. Ward, Lieu- 
tenant Colonel, John N. Partridge; Adjutant, Lieut. John B. 
Frothingham ; Quartermaster, Lieut. John C. Budd; Surgeon, 
Major George K. Smith. 
Company A, Captain Joseph G. Story; 1st Lieutenant, Francis 
H. Rowland. Company B, Captain Charles E. V. Traslow ; 
1st Lieutenant, George L. Volck. Company C, Captain S. 
Jefferson Stevens; 1st Lieutenant, Harris K. Smith. Com- 
pany D, Captain Darius Ferry, Jr.; 1st Lieutenant, John W. 
Marshall. Company E, Captain P. Augustus Hardy; 1st Lieu- 
tenant, Frank G. Richardson. Company F, Captain Charles E. 
Joy; 1st Lieutenant, George H. Pettel. Company G, Cap- 
tain Alfred H. Williams; 1st Lieutenant, Walter J. Cowing. 
Company K, Captain Willis L. Ogden; 1st Lieutenant, Wil- 
liam M. Moore. 
Co. D, National Guard of Vermont (Ransom Guards), of St. 
Albans, 60 men. Capt. J. W. Newton; First Lieutenant, 
Stewart Strangham; Second Lieutenant, Seymour Wood. 
Estey Guards of Battleboro, Vermont, .50 men. Capt. J. J. Estey ; 
First Lieutenant, F. K. Banvers; Second Lieutenant, Fred 
W. Child. 
Pelouze Cadets of Detroit. This fine oody of cadets belonged to 
Detroit, and were named after General Louis H. Pelouze, of 
that City, Assistant Adjutant General. The Corps was very 
proficient in military tactics and was officered as follows: 
Major J. S. Rogers, First U. S. Infantry, in command ; Major, 
David Faux; Adjutant, R. McD. Campair; Quartermaster, 
William H. Maxwell; Surgeon, A. Barrownian. 
Company A, Captain F. P. Radcliffe; First Lieutenant, J. M. 
Staring; Second Lieutenant, A. Henkle; 28 Cadets. Com- 
pany B, Captain C. E. Locke; First Lieutenant, J. E. Dupont; 
Second Lieutenant, W. Smith; 22 Cadets. Company C, Cap- 
tain J. H. Lynch; First Lieutenant, Wm. Candler; 20 men. 
Company D, Captain H. B. Wyley; First Lieutenant, T. E. 
Lynch; Second Lieutenant, J. H. Johnson; 20 men. 
Cadets from the Northern Home for Friendless Children and 

Girard College. 
The most attractive organization in the Centennial Legion was 
the First Light Infantry, of Rhode Island, accompanied by 
the National Providence Band. The Corps was divided into 
four companies, of 40 men each, and the number all told was 
240. The uniform consisted of red coat, white pants and 
shakos. 
Company D, Captain Gardner, N. G. of Baltimore, presented a 
copy of the Declaration of Independence, written by George 
Bristow, of Baltimore, to the New York Seventh Regiment, 
as a memorial of their Centennial trip. 



247 



248 Cl^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 187(5 

The Spanish Engineer Corps was also in line, and attracted no 
little share of attention, for between their free and easy marching 
and fine appearance, they certainly must have been highly gratified 
at the reception they received along the entire route. 

The whole parade was an overwhelming and crowning success, 
and was by far the most enlivening portion of the celebration. 
What could be more beautiful than the brilliant array of Military 
parading down Chesitnut Street stlrejtlching in both directflons 
as far as the eye could reach, and this, too, to celebrate the 
one hundredth year of our Independence. The principal and best 
Regiments were here from all of our largest Cities in the east and 
a few from the west and south. The uniforms of all were faultless 
in every detail, and the white pantaloons on many were spotless. 
The music was of the most thrilling character, all of the best bands 
in the country, greatly augmented for the occasion. 

The streets were in excellent condition, and the troops marched 
with little inconvenience. The streets through which the soldiers 
marched were enclosed at an early hour that morning, and the 
militia took advantage of this to perform their difficult evolutions, 
presenting a splendid picture to those who were fortunate enough 
to occupy windows along the route. The effect as the Militia 
marched past, was most electrifying. As each favorite company 
passed they were received with loud cheers and the waving of hand- 
kerchiefs. The reception of the troops was, in fact, a perfect 
ovation, and they well deserved it, for it was, without doubt, one 
of the finest military displays we had had in this City for a num- 
ber of years, and those who witnessed it were truly fortunate, for 
it will be some time, doubtless, before its equal will ever be wit- 
nessed. 

The State Fencibles paraded with the Centennial Legion 
in the following order: Band 20, Drum Corps 10, Staff Officers 5, 
Commissioned Officers 3, Muskets 70, making a total of 108 men 
in line. Of the doings of the Corps upon America's greatest 
Anniversary, the Ledger of July 5th says : 

The State Fencibles, of this City, who composed a portion of 
the Centennial Legion, presented an admirable appearance. This 
crack organization was repeatedly cheered along the route, for 
their admirable marching and soldierly bearing. 



1876 PRESENTATION OF WATCH 249 

The Press of same date said : 

From the roar of cheers and applause that arose, it was evi- 
dent that the Philadelphians, at least, knew that the crack com- 
pany, not only the best drilled, but the best disciplined, under any 
and all circumstances, in the United States, if not in the world, 
was approaching; and as Captain Ryan, the able and efficient com- 
mander of the State Fencibles, marched along, his company fol- 
lowing solid as a rock, the alignments and distances perfect, and 
every man with his eyes straight to the front, intent on nothing 
but the performance of the duty that has raised them still higher 
in the estimation of the citizens of their native City, the entire 
throng of humanity joined in the generous ovation, and the Fen- 
cibles must feel repaid somewhat for their many months of ardu- 
ous and attentive drill. Too much cannot be said in praise of the 
Fencibles, and the citizens should see that the company above all, 
who reflect so much credit on the City, are well and fully sup- 
ported in all their undertakings. 

The closing feature of the great Centennial celebration of the 
Fourth of July was a dress parade, in the evening, of the various 
companies of the Centennial Legion, which took place on Broad 
Street below Chestnut, and witnessed by an immense number 
of people. The crowd was as enthusiastic as it was large. 

The bands attached to the various visiting companies were also 
in line, and furnished the music for the occasion, which, to all who 
participated, is one long to be remembered, and will always remain 
a green spot in the reminiscences of the great Fourth of July. 

IMajor Gilchrist, of the Washington Light Infantry, of Charles- 
ton, South Carolina, commanded the Legion, and Major Noyes, of 
the Boston Light Infantry, acted as Adjutant. After the usual 
formation, the Legion was handed over to its Commanding Officer, 
who put the command through the usual manual of arms. While 
the companies were still in line. Major Gilchrist advanced towards 
Captain Ryan, of the State Fencibles, and said : 

"It is my pleasant duty. Captain Ryan, to have been selected by 
the Legion to present to you as a slight token of their esteem, the 
time-piece I hold in my hand. We have come from the far North 
and the sunny South, to join in the grand celebration of our Na- 
tion 's existence. Our fathers fought side by side during the Revo- 
lution, to give us a Nation and the freedom we are now enjoying, 
and though we represent different states, we have come together 
as brothers of a common country. We are here as brothers in 
arms, to march under the same flag, and if, as happily has been 
said, 'Had we known each other better, there would have been no 



250 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCTBLES 1876 

war. ' Let us then remember our errors as a part of the history of 
the past, and in the future consider as a common enemy all who 
would attempt to rend that Union, whose Centennial we are now 
celebrating. I have been delegated. Captain, to present to you 
this souvenir of the occasion, whose ticking reminds me of the 
flight of time. Let us now and in the future remember no sec- 
tional differences, and cling only to a common standard. This 
chain, connecting the watch, contains thirteen links, joined by 
small golden circles, the whole emblematic of the thirteen original 
States, each link, like the States, being indissolubly united. Re- 
member, Captain Ryan, that we are about to separate, but that al- 
though distance hides us from each other, the magnetism of 
friendship, like an invisible wire, will ever respond from heart to 
heart. ' ' 

Captain Ryan, in receiving the watch and chain, said : 

"You must permit me to make use of words that have often 
been used before, and truly say to you, I cannot at this moment 
give expression to the grateful feelings of my heart. My humble 
efforts in behalf of my brothers-in-arms, you have over-estimated. 

Your magnificent testimonial— the time, the place, and the high 
character of all who have joined in thus doing honor to one of 
Pennsylvania 's national guardsmen, would have more than repaid 
the labors of a lifetime. I am proud to meet you, gentlemen of 
the Legion, in our City, and as the great number of troops in our 
midst from all sections of our country prevents us from showing 
you that attention that we most desire to, we feel sure that you 
will properly understand our position, and when you return home it 
will be with the conviction that we have made the best use that 
we could of our humble abilities to make your stay among us as 
pleasant as possible. I think that we may all, without egotism, 
feel proud of our commands, and a great pleasure that we were 
permitted to be present, and be a part of the grandest display of 
citizen soldierly that this world has perhaps ever witnessed. 

And now permit me. Captain and Gentlemen of the Centennial 
Legion, to thank you in every sense in which I can convey the 
sentiment. ' ' 

At the conclusion of Captain Ryan's remarks, the parade was 
dismissed amid the applause of the immense crowd of spectators, 
and the various companies marched to their headquarters. 

The foregoing closed the first meeting of the Centennial Legion, 
which was expressly organized for this celebration, of military com- 
panies to represent the original thirteen states, who by the wonder- 
ful ability displayed on the Fourth, surprised themselves as well 
as the foreigners, who little expected such proficiency from private 



1876 EESOLUTIONS OF THANKS 251 

individuals of a Republic, where the standing army numbers but 
few thousands. After the celebration of Tuesday, the twelve com- 
panies, other than that of Pennsylvania, deeming that some recog- 
nition should be made by them for the hospitable and generous man- 
ner in which they had been received by Captain Ryan and his Com- 
mand, purchased the magnificent gold watch and chain, and pre- 
sented it as a token of their appreciation of him, both as an officer 
and gentleman. 

The Press of this City, in speaking of this parade and of the 
Corps on the following day, said : 

The appearance and conduct of the troops was almost uni- 
formly highly commendable, the marching of all generally, being 
very fine, but without neglecting the merits of any it is impossible 
not to single out the State Fencibles as decidedly bearing off the 
palm. Their appearance as they swung from Broad Street into 
Walnut, with their showy uniforms, and splendid bearing, was 
simply superb, and elicited a spontaneous outburst of admira- 
tion from the spectators. Just as they passed that point the sun, 
hitherto struggling with the clouds, burst into full view, giving 
promise of a bright day and lighting up the well-burnished mus- 
kets of the Corps with dazzling glitter. The episode seemed to 
heighten the imposing appearance of the Fencibles, and to increase 
the general enthusiasm. 

The following was later received from the Norfolk Light Artil- 
lery Blues: 

Armory of the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues, 

Norfolk, Va., July 28th, 1876. 

At a meeting of the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues held July 
28th, 1876, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted: 

Whereas, We recognize with much pleasure the kindly atten- 
tions of the State Fencibles of Philadelphia and their courteous 
Captain to our command during our late visit to their City, and are 
desirous of expressing our appreciation of that thoughtful courtesy 
which enabled them at a time when large demands were necessarily 
made upon their time and attention to extend to us as a Com- 
mand, and individually so many acts of courteous attention ; there- 
fore, be it 

Eesolved, Thanks are thus and hereby tendered to Captain 
Eyan of the State Fencibles, of Philadelphia, and his Command, 
for their kindness and courtesy in extending to us an escort both 
on our arrival and departure, and for many other acts of kind- 
ness extended to us individually by the members of their Cora- 



252 O^^E HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

mancl, which will be held in kindly remembrance by us as an evi- 
dence of the good feeling existing between the military organiza- 
tions of the different sections ot our country. 

Resolved, That these resolutions be spread upon the records of 
the company and a copy transmitted to the State Fencibles. 

Captain, Samuel Hodges, 

Lieut., H. C. Whitehead, 

Sergt., S. S. Saunders, ^ Committee. 

Corpl., W. C. Dickson, 

Private, D. T. Brooke, 
Washington Taylor, 
Secretary. 

The officers of the Corps paid close attention to the officers of 
the several commands, as did the members of the Corps to the 
members of the various companies, leaving nothing undone to make 
their stay pleasant until all had departed. The last to leave the City 
was on the 7th. 

The officers and men of the Command reflected great credit on 
themselves for the energy and efforts they displayed in showing hos- 
pitality to so large a body, and were untiring in their efforts to 
contribute to their enjoyment at a great sacrifice of time and the 
usual expenditures entailed on such occasions. 

August 3rd to 14th, the entire National Guard of Pennsylvania 
were mobilized (except the First Division which belonged in Phil- 
adelphia) , in the West Park, for the purpose of a review and giving 
them an opportimity of visiting the Exposition. 

On the 10th they made a parade in the City, the 1st Division par- 
ticipating, under the command of the Commander-in-chief, Gov. 
John F. Hartranft, and were reviewed by him at Broad and Chest- 
nut Streets. 

On this occasion the Fencibles mustered ninety-four officers and 
men, including the band, under the command of Lieutenant Packer, 
Captain Ryan being absent from the City. The Corps had as guests 
at the Armory, the Detroit Light Guard of Michigan, who were 
visiting the Exposition. They were entertained by the members, 
and returned home on that evening. 

Of this parade, the Piihlic Ledger of August 11th, 1876, spoke 
editorially, in part, as follows: 

Visitors to Philadelphia from foreign countries who were on 
the street yesterday afternoon had an opportunity to observe one 
class of American products that are not on display at the Cen- 



1876 VISIT OF NEW HAVEN GRAYS 25:^ 

tennial International Exhibition. They had a chance to see a fine 
body of citizen sohliery out of which those gigantic American 
armies grew which, but a few years ago were fighting through 
a stupendous and fiercely contested war of four years. ... In the 
column which marched along Chestnut, Market and Broad Streets, 

yesterday, there were about seven thousand five hundred men 

Perhaps our observing visitors noticed the personnel of the 
troops composing the column. If they did, they saw its varie<l 
character. The men are from the agricultural country, and from 
the mining and manufacturing districts, from the cities and 
counties bordering on tidewater, and from the mountains and val- 
leys of interior Pennsylvania. They are farmers and mechanics, 
miners and factory men, merchants and professional men, clerks 
and shop-keepers, the men who occupy the places of industrial and 
useful civic life, who keep the wheels of civilized society in mo- 
tion. There M-ere sun-bronzed and athletic men, whose vocations 
keep them in the open air. from both city and country, and there 
were equally lithe and active men, whose trades and occupations 
keep them indoors, and these also were both country and city. But 
they were all, or nearly all, hale and hardy men, as our visitors 
could see, worthy representatives of their State, and, if need be, 
champions for their country 

That body of about seven thousand five hundred men is the 
nucleus of a powerful army. . . . They are the reserve for the 
civic force in seasons of "commotion and turbulence, which we ex- 
perience occasionally, as other communities. . . . The squads, and 
companies, and regiments, and brigades, and skeleton divisions, of 
which it is composed, are just so many battalions of soldier- 
teachers, ready to organize and train and command the larger 
force. 

The parade was a fine display of our citizen soldiery, and of- 
ficers and men are entitled to warm acknowledgment. They keep 
up their organizations under a good deal of discouragement, and 
a higher degree of credit is due them on that account. 

On September 7tli, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the 
evening in full dress uniform at 7.15 o'clock, for the purpose of 
escorting the New Haven Grays to the theatre. They were en- 
camped in Fairmount Park and were here to visit the Exposition. 
They Avere escorted to the City by Lieutenant Stewart, who was 
detailed for that purpose. After the performance they visited 
Rappley's Summer Garden at South Penn Square, where a colla- 
tion was prepared for them. Arriving there it was found that it 
had disappeared. The refreshments had been gobbled by a large 
body of visiting firemen, the proprietor admitting that he did not 



254 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

know the difference between a fireman and a soldier. The hour 
being too late to make other arrangements all marched to the Ar- 
mory. After procuring some baskets of wine and cigars and 
coaches, the Fencibles bid them good-night and they returned to 
their camp. 

September 18th: Meeting in reference to decease of Sergeant 
Geer, at which the following action was taken thereon: 

' ' Whereas, We are again called upon to mourn the decease 
of one of our fellow-members ; therefore, be it 

Eesolved, That in the decease of Sergeant Wilbur P. Geer, this 
Corps has lost one of its faithful members, and those who knew 
him a steadfast friend, and although his time has come, we can 
rest assured that God, in His infinite wisdom, has relieved him 
of his suffering, and taken him to that land from whence no trav- 
eler returns. 

' How sleep the brave, who sink to rest 
By all their country 's wishes blest. ' 

Resolved, That the heartfelt sympathies of this Corps be ten- 
dered to the relations of the deceased, assuring them, that what 
was done by Him, was ' all for the best. ' 

Eesolved, That the rooms of the Corps be draped in mourning 
for thirty days, and that the Corps parade to escort the remains to 
their last resting place, and that a copy of these resolutions be 
presented to the relatives of the deceased, by the Committee. 

Corporal James Stimmel, 

Captain Isaac W. Ranck, 

Corporal Charles Berger, y Committee. 

Private Joseph Baumgardner, I 

Private J. B. M. Grier, J 

September 19th. the Corps assembled this afternoon to pay the 
last sad rites at the funeral of our late comrade, Sergt. W. F. 
Geer. He was a faithful soldier and a veteran of the Civil War, 
and was respected by every member of the Corps. He was buried 
in Monument Cemetery, the usual volleys were fired over his grave. 

The Corps turned out with Band 18, Drum Corps 8, Staff Officers 
1, Commissioned Officers 3, Muskets 44; a total of 74 men. 

September 25th and 26th, in recognition of courtesies tendered 
by the State Fencibles to the Putnam Phalanx, of Hartford, Con- 
necticut, during the latter 's stay in this City in June, they sent a 
committee to meet a similar one of the Fencibles, who met them 



1876 A POEM— CLOSE OF CENTENNIAL" 255 

upon this occasion at the Bingham House, and the following was 
read: 

* * Greetings. ' ' 

State Fekcjbles to Putnam Phalanx, 

Philadelphia, September 25th and 26th, 1876. 

Around the Board in festive vein, 
Comrades, we meet once again; 
With memories of the bygone thanks, 
To greet the Hartford — Phalanx. 

What nobler sight than this to see. 
The type of Hartford 's chivalry ; 
It warms the heart, the spirit thanks 
The gallant — Putnam Phalanx. 

And should the flag of Freedom fly, 
Amid the smoke of Battle's sky; 
There would be hope, and then the thanks 
Would greet the Putnam Phalanx. 

Then let us think of this Centennial, 
Where freemeii met, and with a will. 
Let's give to these three hearty thanks, 
And with them join — the Phalanx. 

September 26th, the Corps assembled at the Armory in the even- 
ing in full dress uniform for drill. A large number of ladies and 
gentlemen were present. During the evening a committee of the 
Putnam Phalanx from Hartford, Connecticut, presented the Corps 
with a handsome silver w^aiter, pitcher, and goblets, in recognition 
of courtesies received on their recent visit to Philadelphia, June, 
1876. 

During the afternoon the committee was entertained by the offi- 
cers of the Corps, and were taken for a drive through the park to 
the Falls, where a catfish supper was indulged in. After having 
a pleasant time all returned to the Armory for the drill. 

November 10th, marked the closing of the Centennial Exposition. 
The official ceremony was conducted by President U. S. Grant. 

The Evenmg Star of this City said: 

It rained in the beginning, it rained in the end, and had a 
brilliant reign throughout. 



256 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1876 

At a regular meeting of the Corps held November 13th, the fol- 
lowing action was taken in reference to the death of Private Michael 
J. Gingrich, age 23 years: 

Whereas, We have again been bereft of one of our companions 
by the hand of Him whose irresistible call is only a matter of 
time, therefore we, as our acknowledgment of it, humbly and sor- 
rowfully bow to His will; and 

Besolve, That in the decease of Private Michael J. Gingrich we 
are again reminded of Him who, in His infinite wisdom, has seen 
fit to relieve the deceased of his suffering, and caused us to mourn 
one who, by his good and generous disposition, endeared him- 
self to all that knew him, and who always took an active interest 
in the doings of the Corps until stricken down by the disease that 
caused his death. 

Besolved, That we tender our heartfelt sympathies to the sorrow- 
stricken parents, assuring them that He, whose call has been an- 
swered, know that in making it. He was doing it "all for the 
best." 

Besolved, That as a mark of respect to the deceased, our quar- 
ters be draped in mourning for thirty days, and that the above be 
published and a copy presented to the parents of the deceased. 

Sergeant Charles Berger, 

Private William M. Bower, 

Captain John W. Ryan, )> Committee. 

Private Louis P. Thiery, 

Captain John Bower, 

November 16tli the Corps met at the Armory, in the evening in 
uniform and side arms, preceded by the band and with a number of 
the employees of Bailey, Banks & Biddle marched to the residence 
of our late comrade, Michael J. Gingrich, deceased, to attend the 
funeral services held on that evening, previous to taking his body to 
Harrisburg on the following day for interment. The thanks of this 
Corps are due to the City Grays of Harrisburg, Captain Maloney, 
for the attention given to the grave of our comrade on several occa- 
sions. 

November 30th, Thanksgiving Day, was the parade of 1st Divi- 
sion, N. G. of Pa. The Corps, parading with Band 20, Drum Corps 
10, Staff 4, Commissioned Officers 3, Muskets 66 ; making a total of 
103 men. 



1876 EXHIBITION DRILL 257 

The Press of December 1st, in speaking of this parade, said of 
the Corps : 

Now came the famous State Tencibles, of the Centennial Le- 
gion, with their zealous and capable commander, Captain J. W. 
Ryan, marching at their head, proud of his boys, who have so fre- 
quently in the last year proved themselves the equal of any mili- 
tary company in the country, whether \aewed from a point as to 
their drill ability or social qualities, and it is well now, at the close 
of this Centennial year, that Captain Ryan and his comrades 
should have all the great credit due them for the tireless and in- 
defatigable manner in which they were always ready and prepared 
to do honor as escorts and hosts to any and all visiting soldiery. 
Their record is a glorious one, and they should be proud of it. 
Yesterday they were fully up to the mark, in every respect, and as 
they were proceeding to Columbia Avenue, on Broad Street, 
marching in company front, they were frequently and deservedly 
applauded. 

The parade was reviewed by the Mayor and City Councils. The 
Fencibles were the largest Company out upon this occasion, muster- 
ing 103 olKcers and men including the band. 

On December 11th, was a benefit and exhibition drill at the Wal- 
nut Street Theatre. The drill took place between the acts and was 
beautifull}' executed, and elicited much applause from a crowded 
house. After the performance, the Company attended a ball given 
by the Second Regiment. 

The following is an answer to a communication from Captain 
Ryan to the representative officers in charge of the Spanish Ex- 
hibit at the Centennial : 

Phila., Dec. 27th, 1876. 
Mr. John W. Ryan, 

Captain of the State Fencibles, 
Sir: 

Your kind letter of the 19th to hand, and I learn with the 
greatest pleasure the high proof of sincere friendship that the 
distinguished Corps of Fencibles of this State has resolved to give 
to the Spanish Officers and Engineers now in this City. I am 
very much pleased that our military men should have reached the 
sympathies of those of this Nation, and not only I accept with 
gratitude the offered escort with which purpose I will communi- 
cate you in time, but I shall notify my government of such agree- 
able news. Please accept my warmest thanks and present them 
to the Corps of your Command. 
I remain sir, 

Very respectfully yours, 

Francis Lopez Fabra, 
Spanish Consul at Philadelphia. 
17 



258 ONE HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1876 

Phila., Dec. 27th, 1876. 
Me. John W. Ryan, 

Captain of the State Fencibles, 
Dear Sir: 

I take the liberty of sending you with the bearer, two photo- 
graphs of the detachment of Spanish Engineers now in this City. 
One for you and the other for the State Fencibles Corps, and I 
add two copies of my own with the same object. 

I hope that you and the distinguished Corps of your com- 
mand, who have been constantly so kind to us, will do us the 
favor to keep them as a token of our respect, gratitude, and 
friendship toward you. I remain. 

Very truly yours, 

Juan J. Marin, 
Col. Commanding. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

1877—1880. 

DEPARTURE OF SPANISH ENGINEERS — INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT 
HAYES — MEMORIAL DAY PARADE — RAILROAD RIOTS AT PITTSBURGH — 
SCRANTON RIOTS — A CAMP INCIDENT — FLAG PRESENTATION — VISIT 
TO ATLANTIC CITY — PRESENTATION OF LOCOMOTIVE BELL — APPE.VL 
TO INCREASE PENCIBLES TO BATTALION — ELECTION OF MAJ. JOHN W. 
RYAN — battalion's P^IRST PARADE — JOHN MCCULLOUGH ELECTED A 
MEMBER — INAUGURATION OF GOV. HENRY HOYT — PRESENTATION OF 
PORTRAIT OF MAJOR RYAN — VISIT OF THE GATE CITY GUARD OF AT- 
LANTA — RECEPTION TO GEN. U, S. GRANT — VISIT TO NEVVr YORK — 
DIVISION CAMP AT FAIRMOUNT PARK. 

On January 8th, 1877, Robert E. Pattison was elected President, 
Maj. George P. Eldridge, Vice President, Wm. B. Glenn, Secretary 
Charles Berger, Treasurer. The officers were Capt. John W. Ryan, 
Lieutenants Packer and Stewart. 

January 22nd, the members assembled at the Armory in the morn- 
ing with overcoats, and mustered 61 men, for the purpose of escort- 
ing the departing Spanish Engineers, who were about to return to 
Spain. They marched to the depot at 15th and Market Streets, 
and met the detachment, and after the customary salute had been 
rendered, marched to 6th and Walnut Streets to the Spanish Con- 
sul's office, where the Engineers paid their respects to him. The 
line of march was then taken up to the Mayor's office, where His 
Honor delivered a brief address, which was responded to by the 
Colonel commanding the detachment. The march was then taken 
up for Washington Street pier, where the Engineers were saluted 
with a rocket from the Corps. After bidding them good-bye, the 
special train started for Girard Point, where the steamer awaited 
them. 

February 22nd, Washington's Birthday, the Corps reported at 
the Armory in uniform with overcoats in the afternoon for parade. 
The day being very stormy and the streets in horrible condition, the 
parade was made very short, going only as far as 12th and Walnut 

259 



260 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1877 

Streets, and returning to the Armory. The Command Wiis not 
out in strength, there being only 3 officers and 52 men. 

On March 1st, the members gave a family reunion at St. George's 
Hall, which proved a very sociable event, and was enjoyed by all 
participating. Nothing was left undone by the committee to make 
it pleasant. Lieutenant Packer was Grand Conductor ; Lieutenant 
Stewart, Master of Ceremonies; Floor Managers, Sergeant Berger, 
Corporal G. Simpson, Privates Moore and Stimmel; Committee, 
Privates C. Meacke, Geo. Moser, Edw. Weaver, Louis Theiry. 

March 4th, Simday morning, the Corps assembled at the Armory 
fully equipped, with overcoats, to proceed to Washington, to attend 
the inaugural ceremonies of the President-elect, Rutherford B. 
Hayes. The Command left the Armory at 10.30 A. M. and took a 
special train, on which also was the Hartranft Club, via Lancaster, 
York, and Baltimore. On arriving at the Capitol early in the 
evening they were received by the Washington Light Infantry, 
commanded by Col. Wm. G. Moore, who escorted the Corps tp their 
quarters at the Imperial Hotel. After taking supper, the men were 
dismissed until 9 o'clock the next morning. 

During the evening the officers entertained a number of visitors, 
military and civil, many of whom were from Philadelphia. 

On Monday morning the Corps fell in and marched to 5th and 
Louisiana Avenue, and took position on the left of the Washington 
Light Infantry. On the line of march the first evidence of approba- 
tion the Corps received, was at the hands of the Hartranft Club. 

On Tuesday morning the Corps marched to the White House, 
and were introduced to the President by the Hon. Wm. D. Kelley, 
an honored member of the Corps. In the afternoon the Corps left 
their quarters and marched to the depot, to return home; the 
Hartranft Club also being on the train. Arriving in Philadelphia 
the Corps was met by a committee of Co. E., 1st Regiment, who 
were to escort the Club. Together they tendered an escort to 
their quarters which was accepted, and the march taken up 
to 11th and Chestnut Streets, where they formed in line at present 
arms, the club passed to their quarters, and the two companies then 
marched to the Armory, where Co. E had a collation prepared for 
the boys. There had always been a very friendly feeling between 
the Fencibles and Co. E, and its Veteran Captain, James Muldoon. 
The Fencibles expressed their thanks to the members of Co. E for 



1877 PITTSBUR(; KIOTS 2(il 

the kind and thouffhtfnl spirit in which they were received, on 
their return. 

On May 30th, Decoration Day, tlie Corps paraded as escort to 
George G. Meade Post No. 1, proceeding to Laurel Hill Cemetery 
where the graves of General Meade, Colonel Page, and many ofifi- 
eers and soldiers were decorated. 

Early on the evening of Friday, July 20th, iniexpected orders 
were received for the Corps to report for duty, from General Brin- 
ton. The railroads were being blocked by rioters, who had assumed 
a threatening attitude. At 10.30, two hours after the order had 
been received, 3 officers and 33 men had reported. Captain Ryan 
at once marched the Company to the West Philadelj)hia Depot, and 
reported to Gen. E. D. C. Loud, leaving Lieutenant Packer to re- 
port the next morning with those who had not yet arrived. The 
advance arrived in Pittsburgh at L30 on the 2Lst, and the Division 
moved down the railroad from the Ihiion Depot to 28th Street, 
where an immense mob had assembled, in the streets, on the 
bluffs, and on the side of the road, blockading the way and refusing 
to allow trains to pass either east or west. 

The position of the Corps was on the extreme left of the Divi- 
sion, and were deployed as skirmishers across the railroad (an ex- 
tremely difficult position, owing to the road being blocked with 
trains) to keep back the mob. The mob refusing to disperse when 
called upon by the Sheriff, rapidly became more dense; he then read 
the riot act amid the jeers and hooting of the mob. 

The IMilitary was ordered to clear the tracks but the mob 
still refused to disperse. As soon as the troops began to press them 
the trouble commenced. A shower of rocks and coal and iron, clubs 
and pistol shots rained on them from the crowded bluffs in every 
direction, wounding many, some very severely. It was then that 
the troops opened fire by sending a volley in the direction of the 
bluffs, causing the mob to disperse, leaving a number of wounded, 
dead and dying, on the ground. 

After quiet was restored, the troops were ordered by General 
Pearson, who was in command, to enter the round houses, which 
was very poor judgment, and exhibited weakness in the Commander. 
Why this was done never could be clearly understood. However, 
as soon as the troops were housed in this prison, it was surrounded 
by a revengeful and howling mob who laid siege, hurling missiles 
of every description into the building during the night, and no one 



262 <^NE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1877 

willing to assume the responsibility of driving them off. The Gen- 
eral, at whose orders they were imprisoned, made his escape during 
the night, leaving the soldiers to take care of themselves. 

When General Brinton assumed command, the duty of guarding 
the front and rear gates was assigned to Captain Ryan, who with 
the Fencibles and Keystone Battery under command of Lieutenant 
Winchester, with two gatling guns pointed at the gates. They did 
their duty faithfully in spite of the jeers from the angry mob out- 
side, who would have gotten a terrible lesson if they had attempted 
to force the gates, in the face of the guns. 

After darkness had settled over the scene the mob became wilder 
and tried every means to dislodge the troops from their stronghold. 
They had procured a field piece belonging to Hutchinson's Battery, 
and placed it in the rear of the roundhouse, in an open lot, and were 
loading it with every description of iron, to fire into the building. 
Before they had their scheme arranged, it was discovered by those 
inside. After consultation, Captain Ryan was requested to have 
his Company volimteer to capture the piece ; he, however, would 
not ask his men to volunteer, but said if they would add more 
men to his Company and give him orders, he would sally out and 
capture it. No orders were issued, but a number of men were placed 
at the windows with loaded rifles. The mob was ordered from the 
gun, and not obejang, were fired upon, and driven from it. A 
number were killed and wounded, which had the effect of demoraliz- 
ing them for awhile ; but occasionally a venturesome fellow would 
endeavor to reach the gun to discharge it, and pay dearly for his 
foolhardiness. Not less than 30 men were killed during the night 
at that gun, and a number wounded. 

Before 3 o'clock in the morning Privates Eastman, Gormley and 
Moser, of the Fencibles, were sent to reconnoitre in the yard among 
the lumber piles, with orders to shoot any one found there, appre- 
hending that the rioters would attempt to set it on fire. 

Just before daylight the Captain called the Company together 
and told them that he would capture the gun if they would volun- 
teer. They answered yes, unanimously ; but before they started 
the order was eoimtermanded. 

The main body of the Company was quartered in the machine 
shop where they erected a barricade about 2 feet high, facing the 
railroad, and were prepared to give the rioters a warm reception, 
but they kept clear of that luiinviting spot. 




FEXCIBLES orARDIXG TROOP TRAIN' in'RIXG RAILROOAD RIOTS, 187 



1877 PITTSBURG RIOTS 263 

As daylight began to appear it was discovered that the rioters 
were setting fire to some coal oil cars up the track, to send them 
down the grade toward the troops. A heavy beam was placed on 
the track and by direction of General Loud, car wheels were placed 
endwise, which was not done any too soon, for in a few minutes two 
cars of blazing coal oil came flying down the track and struck the 
wheels. The cars were unfortunately hurled against the head- 
quarters, smashing and setting fire to everything within reach, 
but injuring no one. The boys got the fire hose and fought the 
flames. During this time the lower roundhouse and buildings had 
been fired, and the fire was gradually creeping toward them, and 
at last reached the roundhouse. The smoke became so dense that 
orders were issued for the troops to vacate. General Brinton 
gave the order for formation. The Fencibles were ordered to the 
right to act as pioneers, to open the gates and deploy across the 
street until the troops passed out. The Corps then took the right 
of the 2nd Brigade. They marched down Liberty Street to 25th, 
taking the gun that the rioters had not succeeded in firing, out to 
Penn Street. All along this street to Laurenceville, they were 
subjected to a guerilla fire from the mob that followed; many 
shots being fired by policemen, after several soldiers had been 
seriously wounded. 

The Fencibles were later ordered to the rear as guard, and were 
deployed as skirmishers. After taking this position Miller and 
Gillies, of the 6th Kegiment, were killed, the balls going through the 
ranks of the Fencibles doing their deadly work. While in this posi- 
tion the members did splendid work, for the Corps had some 
excellent marksmen. It was during this march that Lieutenant Ash 
of the Keystone Battery was mortally woimded. While going out 
Penn Street a number of rioters were firing from a street car fol- 
lowing the column, and the battery was ordered to fire the gatling 
guns, but the delay in getting to the rear gave all a chance to get 
away except one, who stayed too long. The front of the car was 
riddled. Fortunately for the driver and horse, they were at a cross 
street, and were cut loose just in time. 

On arriving at the bridge, the Corps was ordered to the extreme 
right of the column, and thus marched "over the hills to the poor- 
house" at Clairmont. on Sunday, where they got the first meal 
since leaving Philadelphia on Friday night — nearly 60 hours with- 
out sleep or rest. In withdrawing from Pittsburgh 6 were killed 



264 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1877 

and 15 wounded ; but providentially none of our members were 
even scratched, although they had been in very exposed positions. 

The men turned in early after bivouacing. The light from the 
fire in Pittsburgh illuminating the sky made it look beautiful and 
yet terrible. 

On Saturday morning at 8 o'clock, July 21st, Lieutenant Packer 
reported, with his squad, to Colonel Rodgers at the depot in West 
Philadelphia, and the train carrying 300 members of the Division 
started to join their comrades. Upon arriving at Altoona the 
striking railroad element attempted to take the engine from the 
train, but a guard being thro^^^l out, prevented it. After starting 
from Altoona, stones, railroad iron, and other missiles were thrown 
at the cars by the mob that had gathered, and nearly all the win- 
dows in the cars were broken. When the cars passed beneath a 
bridge the mob dumped rocks on the train by the cart load. Several 
shots were fired, but it was never known with what effect. 

The road was then clear until Johnstown was reached, where an- 
other great mob had assembled, and were turning the switches. A 
heavy guard being thrown out, drove them away, and the train 
passed on without any further hindrances until it arrived at 
Wahls Station, 12 miles east of Pittsburgh. 

The troops not having ammunition did not move again that night. 
A meeting of the officers was called to consider the situation, when 
just at that time a wagon arrived with ammunition, which settled 
the question, and they w^ent on to Pittsburgh. Accordingly, the 
train was started and arrived at the outskirts, where the troops 
formed in columns. Colonel Rodgers being informed that the troops 
leaving in the morning, had left orders to meet them at Blairsville 
Junction, they again boarded the train and started back. 

The advance reached Blairsville on Monday morning, and were 
joined by the troops who had failed to reach them on Sunday. 
They went into camp to await the arrival of the Governor, John F. 
Hartranft, who was on a tour out west, but started home on learn- 
ing of the trouble. The men had no tents, but improvised a shelter 
from the sun by constructing a temporary covering with branches 
of trees ; this, however, was not much protection from the rain. 

On Tuesday they had a brigade dress parade, and an issue of 
ham, the first since they had been out. On Wednesday, the 25th, 
they were still waiting for orders. During the wait one of the 



1877 PITTSBURG RIOTS 265 

"poets" improvised the following little ditty, which was taken up 
and sung through the entire camp : 

' ' There is a little camp 300 miles away, 
Where they are eatiiifj; ham throe times a day. 
Oh! how the soldiers yell, when they hear the dinner bell; 
Oh! how the ham does smell. Ham! Ham! llam ! 

CUORUS. 

' ' Ham for breakfast, 

Ham for dinner. 

Ham for supper, 
Ham ! Ham ! Ham ! ' ' 

The second detachment of trooi)s arriving at Altoona were un- 
able to pass further, on account of tlie engine l)eing tampered 
with by the strikers. They had not taken the precaution to keep 
them from the engines on their arrival and were thus compelled 
to wait. Priv. W. Wes. Chew, Adjts. Peter Lane, and William 
Douglas, an Honoraiy member of the Corps, joined them, after 
having had nuich difficulty in reaching them from Harrisburg, 
bringing many conveniences for the boys in the shape of tobacco 
and pipes. 

Thursday, 26th, found them still in camp and all well, enjoying 
everything but guard duty. That afternoon there was a dress 
parade of the division. On Friday, 27th, orders were received to 
prepare for a move. The Fencibles were ordered to the railroad to 
prepare the train for the division. A gondola car was attached to 
the train in front of the two engines, and one in the rear, with a 
gatling gmi on each, and a squad of the Keystone Battery. 

The Corps being divided for each car, and commanded by Cap- 
tain Ryan and Lieutenant Packer. There were 22 passenger cars 
for the division. After the division was loaded, they awaited the 
arrival of the Governor, who was on his way from Altoona with the 
troops that were waiting there. Engineers had been procured and 
placed on the train and a guard on each engine with orders to 
shoot should they discover any treacherous action on their part. On 
the arrival of the Governor the different members reported to their 
commands, and at dark the train started for Pittsburgh. This time 
the Governor meant business. Their progress was very slow, owing 
to the uncertainty of a clear track ; having to stop often for observa- 
tion. Captain Ryan arrested three men caught tampering with the 
train, one of whom was a strike leader. 



266 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1877 

They arrived in Pittsburgh at daylight, and went into camp on 
the bluffs opposite the roundhouses that were burned, and near 
a hospital, where the division headquarters were established. 
Everything was quiet ; they evidently understood that the soldier 
Governor was no trifler, and the troops were for real duty during 
their stay. 

On Tuesday, the 31st, the Fencibles received orders to report at 
division headquarters for special duty, to take the three prisoners 
captured, to the Pittsburgh prison. On their way through the City 
they were followed by a great jeering mob, which the Captain 
thought best to get rid of. He halted the Company and brought 
them to face the crowd, and cautioned them, that if they did not 
disperse in one minute he would fire, at the same time bringing his 
men to the ready. It is needless to say it had the desired effect, and 
the Company passed on without further trouble. 

At sundown, orders were received to prepare to move at a mo- 
ment's notice. After waiting all night they received notice at 
day break on the morning of August 1st; and at 6.30 the division 
boarded the trains and started for home, as they supposed, conse- 
quently every one was in good humor. 

Upon arriving at Lewistown, after a half hour stop, the cars 
were switched on to the Sunbury Road. The men supposed they 
were going home in a roundabout way on account of some accident 
on the road. On the arrival at the bridge over the Susquehanna 
River, while waiting there, the men caught sight of the other 
section with troops coming from Ilarrisburg, where they had 
changed direction for Sunbury. It was then the boys "smelled the 
rat" and soon found out that they were on their way to Scranton, 
to suppress trouble in that section. 

After a night's ride, of sometimes a mile or two an hour, in the 
mining districts, frequently having to throw out detachments to 
arrest and drive away the sympathizing element, to prevent them 
from wrecking the train, the division arrived at Scranton at day- 
break, August 2nd. 

After a rest in the streets for two hours, to enable the men to 
make coffee, our Brigade marched to Dolph 's Grove, or Dunmore, in 
the northern suburb of the city, and built a camp. On the morning 
of the 3rd, orders were received to move to a place called the Flats. 
The Brigade was nicknamed the Flying Brigade, as they were never 
long in one place. This was a very disagreeable site, and again they 



1877 ^ SCRANTOX RIOTS 267 

started to build camp. A meeting was to have been held therr by 
the discontented miners, and the troops were sent to prevent any 
lawlessness. The presence of the Brigade knocked the bottom out of 
the meeting. During the night there were several shots fired at the 
pickets, but no damage was done. 

On the afternoon of the 4th, Saturdaj^ orders wen; received to 
break camp and prepare to leave for home. During the breaking 
of camp a large sow made its appearance, and not being used to 
such confusion, became wild and disorder^, upsetting the men and 
everything that came in its way, not even respecting the officers, 
and for a half hour was the comedy of the camp. 

The Brigade started for home at midnight, and had a cold ride 
over the mountains, arriving in Philadelphia on Sunday morning, 
the 5th, at 8.30 o'clock. The troops were served with hot coffee by 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. 

The Corps being the last to arrive, they were notified by their 
friends not to stop for breakfast, as they had provided the same. 
The main column marched to Broad and Walnut Streets, where 
they were reviewed by Gen. W. S. Hancock, U. S. A., at his head- 
quarters, and Avere dismissed. The Corps then marched to the 
annex of the Academy of Fine Arts, where a splendid repast was 
set for the boys. Speeches were made by General Loud and Cap- 
tain Ryan. The "Sweet Bye and Bye" and the "Ham Song" 
were sung by the entire Corps. Before dismissing, three cheers 
and a rocket were given to their friends. The boys then returned 
home after 16 days of hard service. 

Our generous entertainers were : IMr. J. L. Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. 
George W. Briggs, Miss Emma Bechler, Mr. Harry Briggs, Mr. 
Samuel Joice, IMr. John IMundell, Mr. Charles Shultz, Messrs. IMc- 
Gee, Baumgartner, Finnan and others. 

During this tour of duty the Corps proved to be one of the most 
active in the division, enjoying the confidence of the Commanding 
Officers of the Brigade and Division, and on several occasions were 
given special and important duties to perform. The strength of the 
Corps on returning from this tour of duty was 3 commissioned 
officers and 74 enlisted men; 34 of the members were detained at 
Altoona until the Governor arrived, when they joined the Cori)s 
at Blairsville. 



268 ONE HUNDEED YEAKS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1877 

Speaking of these riots an old Fencible said to a reporter of the 
Daily News: 

"On the evening of July 22, 1877, — it was Saturday, I think, — 
we of the Fencibles, numbering twenty-nine guns all told, took up 
our quarters in the railroad repair shop, at Twenty-sixth and Lib- 
erty Streets, in Pittsburgh. It had been a hard day for us, and the 
rioters, mad with liquor and wild to get at us, made us not a lit- 
tle grateful for the shelter the shops afforded. In the big 
roundhouse were the First Kegiment, against whom the rioters 
held a particular spite, the Washington Grays and the Weccacoe 
Legion — about 350 men in all. In the yard in the rear of the 
roundhouse was the Keystone Battery. In the repair shop across 
the yard were stationed the Sixth Regiment and the Fencibles, al- 
together about 150 men. Planted in the yard, with its muzzle to- 
ward the gate, against which the crowd surged, was a 10 foot can- 
non, in charge of a portion of Captain Breck 's Pittsburgh Battery. 
The troops were under the command of General Brinton, now dead. 
We entered the repair shop about 9 o 'clock in the evening, and 
from that hour until 11 o'clock the crowd outside grew bolder 
and bolder, and there was never a shot fired from either side that 
was not aimed to kill. What added to the rioters' daring, and 
gave them overweening confidence in themselves Avas a long brass 
cannon, the mate to that held by Captain Breck 's men in the 
yard, which they had trained directly on the roundhouse. It was 
planted not twenty-five feet away from the wall, loaded and ready 
to be discharged, and had one shot been fired from it, it would 
have brought the whole building down on the men inside. The 
roundhouse had, of course, no supporting pillars, and the whole 
weight of the roof rested on the walls, and a breach such as that 
cannon would have made must have tumbleil the whole structure 
to the ground. 

"At 11 o'clock a crowd of men approached the cannon. All 
had liquor in them, and it was plain that they intended to blow 
down the roundhouse. By orders of General Brinton fifty men 
were picked out and sent to the windows closest to the cannon. 
They picked out the best shots. A short time afterward Eyau 
met one of the strikers and stating that he would be willing to 
pay for some bread, and the striker needing the money, could not 
withstand that, and entered his house. He reappeared shortly 
with two loaves of bread and a few crackers. Ryan looked at him 
but took the bread and crackers and laid in his hand the five- 
dollar bill, which the fellow pocketed with great satisfaction. Then 
the Captain distributed the bread till he came to the crackers, and 
of them gave the few remaining to the last man. 

"But where do you come in. Captain?" we asked. 

' ' ' Oh, never mind me, ' he answered, ' I '11 get along well 
enough, ' and not a morsel of bread or crackers would he touch. 

' ' He was a good comrade when danger was brewing. ' ' 






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18"7 VISIT TO ATLANTIC (■|T^- 269 

At the regular Corps meeting in August, the President. Robert 
E. Pattison. delivered a eouiplimentary address to the officers and 
men for the eourage and bravery displayed in responding to the 
cull of the Governor at such short notice. Leaving their homes 
and families, to face not only the enemy and their bullets, but fire 
and starvation as well. "I am proud." said he, "to be the civil 
head of such an organization." 

August 16th, the Corps assembled at the Armory in full dress 
uniform for the purpose of attending the Permanent Exhibition, 
by invitation, it being "Soldiers' Day," and there gave an exhibi- 
tion drill. The Corps mustered 76 officers and men. 

After the drill the Corps was presented with two tri-colored silk 
flags, bearing the inscription "Pittsburgh, July 22, 1877." "Round- 
house, July 22. 1877." Addresses were made by Col. John W. For- 
ney and John S. Morton, President of the Market Street Railway. 
After the ceremonies, the band played waltzes and the members in- 
dulged in dancing. Their rifles were shipped to the Armory and 
the men were left free to enjoy themselves. 

The following communication was received at a later date from 
the Exhibition managers: 

Exhibition Association Permanent Internationai, 
Exhibition. 
Captain John W. Ryan: 

Besolved, That the association takes much pleasure in giving 
public recognition to the soldierly display of the State Fenci- 
bles, commanded by Captain John W. Ryan, in their company 
drill on the evening of "Soldiers' Day," and that we tender 
to him and his Company our most hearty thanks for their prompt 
and courteous response to our request, and for the pleasure af- 
forded so large a number of citizens in viewing the perfection 
and beauty of their drill in marching, and in the manual of arms. 
Yours very truly, 

George F. Griffith, 
Sect, of ExJi. As.in. 

August 28th, the Corps reported at the Armory at 6.30 A. M. 
for a target excursion to Atlantic City. They marched to Vine 
Street Ferry, crossed the river and entrained for that place. They 
were accompanied by many friends, among whom were ]\Iajor Gen- 
eral Brinton and Staff, Brigade Generals Matthews and Loud, and 
their Staffs, and many other officers of the Division. The firing took 
place on the beach, one target for the Corps and one for the guests. 



270 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1S77 

The prizes for the Company were the usual medals, excepting one 
presented by Captain Wm. Baugh, of General Loud's Staff,* for 
the best single shot. The guests' prize was a silver cake basket, 
and was won by General Loud. Captain Ryan received a very 
handsome silver urn, a gift from the Washington Grays, for the 
best average shooting. After the firing, the Corps and their guests 
marched to the United States Hotel and partook of dinner, after 
which they were at liberty until 9 P. M., when the prizes were 
awarded and speeches made by Generals Brinton and Loud, Cap- 
tains Ryan and Baugh, Lieutenant Winchester and others. At 
10.30 they started for home. The Fencibles mustered 3 commis- 
sioned officers, 5 staff, band 23, and 63 men ; total 94. 

On the evening of September 6th, in obedience to orders the Corps 
assembled for inspection, and appeared in their usual style. They 
mustered 72 officers and men. 

On September 29th, the Corps having received an invitation from 
Walter S. Newhall Post No. 7, G. A. R., to spend the day with 
them at their camp held in Sanger Park, in the northern suburbs 
of the City, an order was issued to parade on that date ; but as 
a heavy storm had prevailed the day before and was still storming 
at midnight, with no signs of change, the order was countermanded 
and published in the Sunday morning papers. As the weather had 
cleared by 9 o'clock and a number of the men had not been in- 
formed of the postponement, they prevailed upon Lieutenant Stew- 
art to take the men who had assembled, to the Park ; they numbered 
34 men and one officer. The action of the Lieutenant in parading 
the Company, knowing the orders had been countermanded, made 
him subject to a court-martial for disobedience of orders, but the 
Captain finding it was done at the request of the members, and not 
wilfully, reprimanded him and the matter was forgotten. 

On October 18th Private Oscar Moore, on behalf of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, presented to the Corps a locomotive 
bell that was taken off of one of the engines destroyed in the round 
house fire, where the Corps was stationed the night of July 21st 
and the morning of the 22nd, during the railroad riots in Pitts- 
burgh, f 

During the year a resolution was passed, appointing a committee 
on ways and means to arrange for a trip to the Paris Exposition, 



*Set Baugh medal, page 188. 
tSe<! page 300. 



1877 LETTEE— EXHIBITION DEILL 



271 



in 1878, and to promote the spirit of the resolution, receive contri- 
butions from the members, and to report from time to time as to 
their progress. The Committee met Avith every encouragement 
but, on February- 14th. 1878, they received a letter from the Hon. 
Wm. D. Kelley, who had interviewed the French Consul in Wash- 
ington, wherein he stated it would be impossible to make any ar- 
rangements for the Corps to visit Paris, with arms, it being con- 
trary to the laws of the Nation to allow an armed body of for- 
eigners to land. The committee was then promptly discharged. 

During the latter part of 1877, Captain Ryan had several inter- 
views with the Governor and Adjutant General, in reference to in- 
creasing the Corps to a Battalion of four Companies, and he re- 
ceived the following communication : 

Adjutant General's Office, 

Habrjsburg, Pa. 
Captain John W. Eyan, 
Sir: 
The recent exigencies of the service have compelled the or- 
ganization of companies in localities where the presence of troops 
by reason of existing and combined turbulence and disorders were 
absolutely necessary. This has so far filled the complement of 
200 companies (the maximum prescribed by law) as to necessarily 
compel a refusal of your application to increase your Corps to a 
Battalion. 

The Governor much regrets that this action for the present is 
thus necessitated by the law. He had encouraged you to in- 
crease your force, but the recent emergencies were such that the 
places reserved for you had to be disposed of promptly to others. 
There may be other opportunities during the coming year, either 
through legislation or under existing laws, in which case your 
Corps which bears such high repute as skilled and disciplined sol- 
diery, shall certainly be considered. 

Very truly yours, 

James W. Latta, 
Adj't Gen. 

October 25th, the Corps having received an invitation to attend 
divine service from the Rev. Dr. Miller, pastor of the Bethany 
Presbyterian Church, 22nd and Bainbridge Streets, they paraded at 
10 o'clock in full uniform, fatigue caps. After listening to an elo- 
quent sermon the Corps returned to the Armory. 

On December 27th, the Corps gave a benefit and drill at the Wal- 
nut Street Theatre, before a splendid audience. The affair was a 



272 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1878 

financial success. This ended the year 1877, one full of activity 
for the Corps. 

The officers for 1878 were : Captain, John W. Ryan ; 1st Lieu- 
tenant, Edward E. Packer; 2nd Lieutenant, W. Wes. Chew was 
elected April 18th, 1878, vice Lieutenant Stewart resigned. Presi- 
dent, Robert E. Pattison ; Vice President, Samuel Moore ; Secretary, 
George Moser; Treasurer, Charles Berger. 

February 22nd, M^ashington 's Birthday, the Corps decorated the 
Washington Monument, in front of Independence Hall, in the morn- 
ing, and in the afternoon paraded in honor of the day. 

May 16th, pursuant to orders, the Corps assembled at the Ar- 
mory in the evening for inspection, by Major Allen and the Bri- 
gade Staff. After the inspection, the Corps gave an exhibition drill 
under the command of Lieutenant Packer, owing to the absence of 
the Captain, who was ill. 

May 23rd, the Corps having accepted an invitation from Co. B. 
6th Regiment, to attend a reception given at their Armory ; the 
Company, in full uniform, under the Command of Lieutenant 
Packer, accompanied by the band, spent a pleasant evening. Pre- 
vious to leaving the Armory a special meeting was held and the 
following resolutions were passed: 

Whereas, Senate bill No. 65, to reorganize the N. G. P., having 
passed finally both houses of the legislature and presented to your 
Excellency for approval, and 

Whereas, We have every reason to b«lieve that it will receive 
favorable consideration from you, and deeming the time most 
auspicious; therefore, be it 

Resolved, That we feel that the time for the usefulness of com- 
pany organizations in great cities and this great Commonwealth 
have passed, and being anxious to still retain our position in the 
National Guard, and with great desire to be full up to the de- 
mands of the occasion, we do most respectfully ask that your 
Excellency give us, if possible under the new bill, an opportunity 
of increasing our Company organization to a Battalion of four 
companies. Pledging ourselves in the event of securing such a 
privilege, such an organization to the State as will prove most 
effectually that the favor has not been thrown away. 

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded through 
the proper military channels to the Adjutant General of the 
Commonwealth. 

Sunday, May 26th, being the 65th Anniversary of the Corps, 
They attended divine service in full uniform, assembling at 



1878 AX APPEAL FOR FUNDS 273 

the Armory at 9.30, and under command of Ijicutenant Packer, 
proceeded to the First Presbyterian Church, 7th and Locust 
Streets, where they had been invited, and listened to an eloquent 
sermon. They then returned to the Armory and dismissed. 
On June 13th the following resolution was adopted: 

Resolved, That Capt. John W. Eyan, 1st Lieut. E. E. Packer, 
2d Lieut. W. Wes Chew, Adjt. Peter Lane, Q. M. Wni. Bower, 
Sergeant A. P. Bloomer, be and the same shall constitute a com- 
mittee of this Corps to call on our fellow citizens for such as- 
sistance as will enable this Corps to increase its membership to a 
Battalion of 200 men, and that the money collected shall be held 
available only for uniforms, and that a committee on collections 
shall have the collecting and disbursing of all money intended for 
uniforms. 

Resolved, A committee of three be appointed to examine appli- 
cants for membership. 

The following circular letter was issued : 

Headquarters Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, 
Philadelphia, June 12, 1878. 
To our Fellow Citizens: 

The position taken by soine of our people is such as should cause 
all law abiding citizens to pause in their labors and give such as- 
sistance as they can afford to the best prevention for riots and 
disorder (a good military organization). Such an organization 
we propose to effect by increasing our present Company of sev- 
enty-five men to at least two hundred well drilled men, and fully 
equipped, and ready at all times to aft'ord such assistance to the 
proper authority as will assist them in suppressing riot and dis- 
order, and preserving the public and private property of our fellow 
citizens. 

Experience has already taught us that a pound of prevention is 
far better than a ton of powder and bullets. 

We feel that the past record of the Fencibles (now over sixty 
years old) will be a sufficient guarantee to you that we mean to 
do what is right, but in addition to that, we pledge ourselves to 
present such an organization as will be a credit to our City, and 
one that can be depended upon to do its full duty, no matter how 
dangerous that duty may be. We will furnish the men, and we 
appeal with confidence to the business men and property owners 
of our City for such assistance as will enable us to i)lace the 
Battalion in a condition fit for active service. 

Your attention is most respectfully called to the following: 
At a stated meeting of the Corps of State Fencibles, held at their 
Armory, Broad Street below Race, on Monday evening, June 10. 
1878, the following resolution was unanimously adopted: 
18 



274 O'NB HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1878 

liesolved, That Captain John W. Eyan, 1st Lieutenant Ed. E. 
Packer, 2nd Lieut. W. Wes Chew, Adjutant Peter Lane, Jr., 
Quartermaster Wm. M. Bower, and Sergeant A. P. Bloomer, be 
and the same shall constitute a committee of this Corps to call on 
our fellow-citizens for such assistance as will enable this Com- 
pany to increase its membership to a Battalion of at least two 
hundred men. 

From the Minutes, 
Attest : 

Geo. W. Moser, 

Secretary. 
The committee will call on you in a few days. 

The following is one of the many letters we received from those 
who had witnessed the discipline and drills of the Corps and may 
serve to enlighten the successors as to its standing at that time. 

Phila., April 29th, 1878. 
Capt. John W. Eyan, 

Commanding State Fencibles, 
Captain : 

Permit me to return through you to the members of your Com- 
mand, my sincere thanks for, and assurance of appreciation of the 
honor bestowed in electing me an Honorary member of your Corps 
and certificate of such. The receipt of such a testimonial from 
any Corps would be certainly considered by me as a high compli- 
ment, but it is doubly so, coming from a Command which stands 
without an equal in the National Guard of the country. With 
my best wishes for your prosperity, I remain, 

Yours truly, 

William D. Baugh, 
Captain A. D. C. 

The following communication was received, dated July 9th : 

Armory Independent Boston Fusileers, 
Company G, 1st Eegiment M. M. 

At a regular meeting of the Company held, the following reso- 
lution was unanimously adopted: 

That the sincere and hearty thanks of the members of this 
Company be and are hereby tendered to Captain Ryan and of- 
ficers and members of the State Fencibles of Philadelphia, for 
their most cordial reception, unbounded hospitality, and innumer- 
able attentions, shown to each and all of us during our stay in that 
City, upon the excursion to Valley Forge. We shall in the future 
look back to those three days as among the brightest of our mili- 
tary days. 

Voted that the clerk forward a copy to Captain Eyan of the 
Corps. Edward M. Buxton, 

Clerl: 



1878 FORMATION OF BATTALION 275 

After the passage of the resolution of June 13th, recruiting had 
been going on very lively and the committee had been kept very 
busy in examining applicants for admission, and were using pre- 
caution in accepting only those, whom in their judgment would be- 
come desirable members, there being more applicants than were 
needed. The contribution committee met with every encourage- 
ment from the citizens and the success was assured. 

On July 10th, an order was received from Harrisburg, to hold 
an election for officers for Companies A and B, on July 18th. 

On July 11th, the entire Battalion was formed in line accord- 
ing to size, and divided in four Companies from right to left, and 
each confined to the height of the men. and the constituted height 
given to each Company. 

On July 18th, an election was held in the Armory for officers of 
tlie first and second Companies of the Corps. Captain Ryan con- 
ducting the election which resulted as follows : 

Company A, Captain, Edward E. Packer; 1st Lieutenant, Robert 
Bringhurst ; 2nd Lieutenant, Charles Meecke. 

Company B, Captain, W. Wes. Chew, 1st Lieutenant, George W. 
Moser; 2nd Lieutenant, Wm. H. Barker. 

In pvirsuance to orders from Harrisburg, an election was held 
for officers of Company C, on August 8th, Captain Ryan conduct- 
ing the election, with the following result : 

Company C, Captain, Charles A. Able; 1st Lieutenant, Alexander 
McKenna ; 2nd Lieutenant, W. Harry Hambleton. 

Orders were then received from Harrisburg to hold an election 
for Major on August 22nd. Col. Charles W. Greene conducted the 
election, which resulted in the selection of John AV. Ryan by unani- 
mous vote of the officers. 

Again pursuant to orders from Harrisburg. an election was held 
for officers of Company D, on September 9th, ]Major Ryan conduct- 
ing the election, which resulted as follows : 

Company D, Captain. George W. P. Simpson; 1st Lieutenant, 
Oscar INIoore, 2nd Lieutenant, Charles Berger. 

All the above officers were elected unanimously by the entire 
Corps, and all worked together harmoniously. All the original 
members were appointed non-commissioned officers in the four 
Companies, and on the non-commissioned staff by the commanding 
officers and captains according to merit. The Captains then took 
charge of their Companies and commenced the course of instruc- 



276 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1878 

tion. As the additions to the Command were all new, rooms in the 
neighborhood had to be rented for the drills. The Battalion had 
only one night in the week on the drill tloor of the City Armory, the 
other nights being used by the 1st Regiment. Such was the inter- 
est taken by both officers and men in the instruction that in a short 
time they vied with the old Company for perfection in their drill. 
Major Ryan lent all his energy, with the officers, in his instruction 
in Battalion movements in the officers' quarters, and on close appli- 
cation and study of the tactics they became so thoroughly posted, 
that on the first Battalion drill not a single error was made. 

On October 10th, they made their first public appearance as a 
Battalion. Pursuant to orders from Brigade Headquarters, the 
Battalion assembled at the Armory in the evening in heavy march- 
ing order, and were inspected by Major Hepburn, Brigade In- 
spector; Brig. Gen. Geo. R. Snowden and Staff were present. After 
the inspection, the Corps manoeuvred in several Battalion move- 
ments. The guard mount and dress parade was conceded by all 
present to have been elegantly performed. On this occasion there 
were but 11 absentees of 147 men, most of whom were absent from 
the City. 

On the 28th of November the Battalion made its first appear- 
ance in public, it being Thanksgiving Day. The Division par:Kled 
and the Battalion was out in full strength. 

On January 6th, 1879, the Battalion gave a benefit at the Walnut 
Street Theatre in aid of its uniform fiuid. Mr. John McCullough 
represented "Spartaeus the Gladiator," between the acts the 
Battalion gave an exhibition drill, with a provisional company made 
of its non-commissioned officers. On the stage at the end of the 
performance IMr. McCullough was presented with a certificate of 
Ilcnorary membership of the Battalion in return for the courtesies 
received from him on many occasions. The presentation was made 
by Col. John W. Forney in a brilliant address, and was received 
by Mr. McCullough in a short speech. 

January 9th, there was an inspection of the Battalion in full 
dress uniform, and on the 16th, an inspection in overcoats and 
shakos. The whole Battalion was then fully equipped, thanks to the 
committee, who had worked like beavers and accomplished wonders. 
During the evening, band master McClurg presented the Battalion 
with a shako that had been worn by a Fencible 40 years before. 

On Januarv 20th. the Battalion assembled at the Armorv at 10 



18'9 INAUtUTRATlON OF GOVEKNOU" liOVT 077 

o'clock, in overcoats and shakos to proceed to Ilarrishurj^' to take 
part in the inaugural ceremonies of Governor-elect Henry M. Iloyt. 
The weather was clear but very cold. At 12 o'clock, preceded by 
McClurg's Band and the Hute and drum corps, they marched to 
the Pennsylvania Depot and departed for Ilarrisburg. where they 
arrived at 4 o'clock. They were received and escorted to the Bol- 
ton House, by the City Grays, Captain Maloney. of that City. 

On the 21st, the Battalion formed and marched to their position 
in the line. There had been a heavy snowstorm for two days, but 
the boys marched steadily on in spite of it. Their street manual 
was very fine, and the passing in review through 12 inches of snow 
could not be excelled for steadiness. After the parade was dis- 
missed, the Battalion marched to their quarters for dinner, and at 
4.30 took the train for home. The Battalion mustered on this 
occasion : Field and Staff 4, Non-com. 4, Flute and Drum Corps 21, 
.AleClurg's Band 24. Company A, Officers and Men 54, Company b' 
Officers and Men 49, Company C, Officers and Men 47, Company D,' 
Officers and Men 55 ; total, 258. 

The Military Pageant, which, despite the usually impropitious 
weather, is the imiversal attendant on all inaugurations, was in 
evidence when Governor Henry M. Hoyt, the first of the four-year 
governors under the constitution of 1874, was inaugurated, Janu- 
ary 21st, 1879. A newspaper comment in the Philadelphia Times 
reads as follows : 

The military, considering the state of the streets and the 
fatigued concUtion of the troops, did admirably, and gave evi- 
dence that the reorganization of the State Militia was bearing 
good fruit. The Battalion of State Feneibles of Philadelphia 
bore ofif the palm in every respect, while the First Regiment gave 
proof of better discipline than any of the regimental commands, 
the Duquesne Grays (PJighteenth Regiment), of Pittsburgh, how- 
ever, presented a soldierly appearance. 

The following is from a Harrisburg paper : 

The soldiers who carried the honors of the day, with no inten- 
tion of being invidious in comparison, it must be candidly con- 
fessed as a judgment due to the public opinion on the subject, that 
Major Ryan's Battalion of Philadelphia, carried off the military 
honors of the day, both by the judgment of the civilian observers 
of the pageant and the military participants in the parade, in 
martial bearing, magnificent personnel, and splendid marching. 
They were the finest body of men that ever marched in the capitol 



278 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1879 

of Pennsylvania. They marched like a solid mass, not a bayonet 
swayed out of range in the line of which it formed a part, render- 
ing the appearance of the men soldierly beyond all comparison. 
Nothing could have been grander, nothing so creditable to state, 
and surely nothing so worthy of applause in the labor of the gal- 
lant Major and his Officers. 

The heights of the members of the Battalion at this date were 
arranged as follows : 

Company A, 5 ft. 10% in. and over. 

Company B, 5 ft. 9 in. to 5 ft. 10^ in. 

Company C, 5 ft. 7^ in. to 5 ft. 8J^ in. 

Company D, 5 ft. 7^ in. and mider. 

This was successful for several years, but was finally abandoned, 
owing to the difficulty of keeping up the strength of the Companies 
A and B, and scarcity of applicants of proper measurement. 

On February 5th, the Battalion assembled at the Armory in the 
morning at 9 o'clock to take part with the Division in the funeral 
obsequies of the late Gen. George Cadwalader, who died suddenly at 
his residence in this City, and who was for many j^ears in command 
of the 1st Brigade N. G. P. He was a Veteran of the Mexican 
and Civil Wars, and his ancestors were prominent in the Revolu- 
tionary and the War of 1812. He was buried in Christ Church 
ground at 5th and Arch Streets. 

Commonwealth op Pennslvania, 
Executive Chamber, 
Habrisburg, February 24, 1879. 
My Bear Major: 

It will give me great pleasure to witness your "Dress Drill" 
on evening of the 27th inst., I expect to be in attendance. At 
what hour? 

Very truly, hastily yours, 

Henry M. Hoyt. 
Major John W. Ryan, 
Philadelphia. 

On February 27th, the regular Battalion Drill took place in full 
uniform. The Armory was crowded. After the drill a full length 
portrait of Major Ryan* was presented to the Battalion by the art- 
ist, Mr. Bechtel. The presentation was made by Col. A. K. McClure, 
on behalf of the artist. Among the invited guests were Maj. Gen. 
John F. Hartranft, Brig. Gen. Geo. R, Snowden, Brigadier General 

*This may be seen in the Board of Officers room at the Armory. 



1879 ANNIVERSARY— EXHIBITION DRILL 279 

Huidekoper, Q. M. Gen, John R. Coxe, Gen. Wm. L. Reiley, Colonel 
Dunkel, Col, T. B. Wiedersheim, Majors Huidekoper, Hepburn, 
Krurabhare, Frismuth, Wilson, Williams, Captains Townsend and 
Wetherill. At the close of the drill the guests were entertained by 
the Officers of the Fencibles. 

May 26th, the 66th Anniversary of the Battalion was celebrated 
at the Permanent P]xhibition Building, on the old Exposition 
ground at Belmont and Girard Avenues, afternoon and evening. 
A large number of invited guests were present, among whom were 
many officers of the Army, Navy, and National Guards. 

An exhibition drill was given in the afternoon and one in the 
evening. The Harrisburg City Grays, Captain Maloney, were 
present, and were entertained by the Battalion. They returned home 
before midnight. After the drill in the evening, dancing was en- 
joyed. The guests were entertained on the upper floor, which 
was brilliantly illuminated by colored lights. Quite a number 
of the Old Guard of New York^ were present. There was an im- 
mense assemblage present in the evening, and it proved a success 
in every way. On the morning of the 27th, our visitors from New 
York were taken to Gloucester on the police tug Samuel B. King 
kindly tendered by Mayor Wm. B. Stokley, where a planked shad 
dinner was enjoyed. While waiting for dinner they took a run to 
League Island Navy Yard, and paid their respects to Captain 
Cook. After dinner they returned to the City, and the visitors de- 
parted for home. 

A newspaper, after interviewing :\Iajor Ryan, reported the 
following : 

"When was it yon received authority to make a Battalion 
from the State Fencibles?" was asked. 

"On the 12th day of June, 1878. To show how many court- 
martials have been held, and what a careful selection was made 
in forming my Battalion, I will state that since that time 400 
men have been enlisted, and 200 discharged." 

"What is the secret of your success, Major Ryan?" asked the 
reporter. ' ' How do you account for it, your being able to get your 
Battalion into the shape in which it now is, within a year's time?" 

"By making every man that joined feel that he was a part of 
the State Fencibles. That alone, has done more good for us than 
anything that I can think of, that could have been introduced in 
connection with the organization of our Battalion." 



280 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLEe 1879 

' ' What is the condition of your Battalion if called on imme- 
diately for active service in the field ? ' ' 

"We have everything that an infantry soldier requires except 
ammunition. ' ' 

' ' Did the State furnish you with uniforms, equipments, &c. ? ' ' 

"No, sir! With the assistance of several of our public-spir- 
ited citizens we have been enabled to place the Battalion in a con- 
dition ready for work in the field, vnth. a serviceable uniform, or 
an exhibition on the street, in a dress uniform that cost us 
$16,000." 

' ' Sujapose the National Guard were to be called out at four 
o'clock in the afternoon, how soon could you report ready for 
duty?" 

' ' I could be at the West Philadelphia depot with more than 80 
per cent, of the Battalion in plenty of time for the 11 : 30 P. M. 
train. ' ' 

In speaking of the sixty-sixth anniversary of the State Feneibles 
and reception to the Centennial legion, the Farrott said : 

Providence, Saturday, May 31, 1879. 

Monday, the 26th of May, being the 66th Anniversary of the 
State Feneibles of Philadelphia, that command voted to com- 
memorate the occasion, and also at the same time hold a reception 
to the Centennial Legion, of which they were a part, representing 
the State of Pennsylvania. Invitations were sent out to each of 
the organizations composing the Legion, to come as an organiza- 
tion or send as large a delegation as possible. 

The First Light Infantry of Providence, as is well known, rep- 
resented the State of Ehode Island on the memorable 4th of July, 
1876. Fifteen members composed the delegation, and Saturday, 
May 24th, was the day set for their departure, and that time found 
them at the depot to take the 7 P. M. train for New York. On the 
arrival of the train they were met by the delegation of the Bos- 
ton Light Infantry (tigers), who represented Massachusetts in the 
Legion. 

Fun! Fun was no name for it, that was enjoyed on the train 
while we were speeding through to Stonington. Flub Dub was in 
his glory, and chin, chin, songs, &c., soon passed away the time 
until we arrived at Stonington. On board the Stonington fun com- 
menced again fast and furious, and many of either delegation did 
not retire to their downy couch until early in the morning. The 
moon was up and the water was smooth as glass, and we had a 
very pleasant sail. We arrived in New York at 5 o'clock, one 
hour ahead of time, and many of the delegations were on deck en- 
joying the passage through the harbor. Blaekwell's and Eandall's 
Islands, the Battery, the Great Bridge and a fire were some of 
the sights that we witnessed. After all had turned out we started 



1879 A NEWSPAPER ACCOUNT 

for Smith & McNeil's restaurant, where a hearty breakfast was 
partalien of. At this restaurant about 12,000 i)eo])le are fe<l dur- 
injf the day. We then proceeded to the Astor House, where our 
gallant Lieutenant and Sergeant-Major and Tedds were stopping. 
We soon routed them out, and a stroll was taken through Broad- 
way and other streets to pass away the time until 8 o'clock, when 
we took the ferry for Jersey City, and were soon speeding on our 
way to Philadelphia by the Bound Brook route. The boys were 
very quiet on the train, many of them seizing the oi)portunity to 
make up sleep, and at 12 o'clock we ran into the depot at Phila- 
delphia. A delegation of the State Fencibles were in waiting, who 
escorted us to the horse cars, and then to the Girard House, our 
headquarters while remaining in Philadelphia. 

A wash-up to remove the stains of travel and a good dinner, we 
were then ready for anything. A visit was made to the new Public 
Buildings, Post Office, 1st Regiment and State Fencibles Armory, 
and other places of interest. All Sunday afternoon could be heard 
the tap of the drum and tramp of feet of the Fencibles receiving 
their guests. We were the first to arrive, and at 3 o'clock the 
Harrisburg Grays, neatly attired in gray, with their band in scar- 
let coats and bearskins, were received and escorted to the Wash- 
ington Hotel. 

Sunday evening was spent as best suited the boys, and I hope 
that some of them at least attended a prayer-meeting. Old Pot 
was presented with an onion at a lady's residence. 

Monday morning dawned bright and clear, and after eating 
breakfast we started on a sight-seeing expedition, visiting the Post 
Office, Independence Hall and other places of interest. At two 
o 'clock Lieut. Hambleton, of the Fencibles, was in waiting to es- 
cort us to the Centennial Grounds; but disappointment! Our 
baggage had not arrived, and we stood on the balcony and saw 
the Boston Boys and Harrisburg Grays start for the grounds. 
What to do we didn 't know. We had been telegraphing all day, 
and nobody knew where it was, and at 4 o'clock a telegram was 
received from New York, stating that the baggage started on the 
4 o'clock train, and would arrive at half -past 7. In the mean- 
time Mr. Lee, Editor of the Bepublic, invited us to visit the 
Zimmer Yacht Club House, where we were entertained and pre- 
sented with bouquets and the miniature yacht "Pinafore." We 
were gone from the hotel only forty minutes, but never mind, our 
baggage arrived at half -past seven, and we were soon after march- 
ing up Chestnut Street, enroute to the main building at the Cen- 
tennial Grounds. The building was completely packed with peo- 
ple, about fifteen thousand being in attendance. Dancing was 
progressing when we arrived, and at 10.45 the assembly sounded, 
and the Fencibles marched upon the floor for a battalion drill. 
The various movements were executed with great precision, and 
Major Ryan has every reason to be proud of his command. 



281 



282 <^NE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1879 

At twelve o'clock the dance was over, and horse cars were then 
taken back to the hotel. The hotel reached, we met in the lobby a 
gentleman who introduced himself as Captain Elliott, of the Wash- 
ington Grays of Philadelphia, who invited us to the Club House 
of the P. D. Q. Club. The furnishing and pictures are well worth 
witnessing, and we spent a very pleasant hour at that place. We 
noticed that the Sergeant-Major was quite enthusiastic to see the 
card receiver which the Captain showed to us, and must be seen 
to be appreciated. We then started back to the hotel, escorting 
our worthy Paymaster and Capt. Elliott, and retired to our rooms. 
Tuesday morning Major Eyan and his officers made their appear- 
ance at the hotel, and invited the Old Guard, Boston Tigers and 
ourselves to a sail down the harbor. We went with the under- 
standing that we should be back to the city in time to take the 
1.45 train for New York. On our way to the boat we stopped into 
the Major's office, and were introduced to His Honor, Wm. S. 
Stokley, Mayor of Philadelphia, who made a very pleasant 
speech of welcome to us, and placed at the disposal of the Fenci- 
bles' officers the Harbor Police Tug. Up the river we went, and 
then down to the Navy Yard at League Island, and by the time we 
started from there it was half -past one, and only fifteen minutes to 
reach the city, distance about six miles. On the way back we 
stopped at Gloucester City, N. J., and had a dinner, consisting of 
"planked shad," waflfies, cream, &c. At this place we had foot 
races, shooting and other amusements, and at 5 o'clock we landed 
at the wharf and immediately started on the dead run for the 
horse cars, bound to take the half -past five train for New York, 
which we did, only having time to grab our baggage and get on 
board before the train started. Oh, the relics that were shown on 
the cars — napkins, pitchers, signs, handkerchiefs, and other things 
too numerous to mention. We arrived at New York at 9 o 'clock, 
and started via Elevated Eailroad and horse cars for the West- 
minster Hotel, near Union Square, kept by Mr. Gibson, of the 
Old Guard. After procuring rooms we had supper in a private 
dining room, and here Jimmie Clark kept us all in a roar with his 
sayings, so that we had a very enjoyable time. The next day 
(Wednesday) the boys in squads of three and four, started sight 
seeing down Broadway, on which street our party of five met Mr. 
Dickenson of the Old Guard, who showed us the Equitable Build- 
ing, Safe Deposit Vaults, Sub-Treasury, Custom and the Stock 
Exchange, ending up with Delmonico's. 

It began to get near one o'clock by that time, and we hailea a 
bus and were taken back to the hotel. After dinner we looked into 
the Old Guard's Armory, and thence back to the hotel for our 
baggage. On leaving, Infantry cheers, "Tigers and Old Guard 
Elms," were given and returned, and we bade adieu to our hosts 
of the Old Guard and wended our way to the boat. Things were 
quiet on board, many of the boys going to sleep as soon as ar- 



1879 VISIT OF GATE CITV GUARD 283 

riviiij:;, and :it, two o'clock in the moniiii^ wtMc awakened to take 
the train for Providence, where we arriveil at 5 o'clock. Leaving, 
out the disappointment of the non-arrival of our baggajje, and 
being detained one day longer than we wished, our trip was a 
glorious success. 

In October, the Battalion received and entertained the Gate City 
Guard, of Atlanta, Georgia.* They were a fine body of men, many 
having served in the Rebel Army. During their stay the Battalion 
gave them a banquet at the Union League Club House. They were 
shown every civility by the officers and members. 

Fourteen years after the close of the Civil War, Atlanta was a 
City of ruins and everj^where were the fresh traces of Sherman's 
bombardment. The South was still invested with the ' ' carpet bag- 
ger" and the camp follower, and bands of negroes led by these 
men, who had worn neither the Confederate gray nor the Federal 
blue, but preyed upon an almost helpless South. 

It was at this trying time in the history of Atlanta and the South 
that the idea was conceived by Capt. J. F. Burke and fostered by 
then Governor Colquitt, to send the Gate City Guard, Georgia's 
crack Infantry command, through the heart of the coimtry of the 
enemy of 14 years before, to bear to the North a message of peace 
and good will from the South. 

The announcement that such a trip was contemplated by the 
Georgia company created a furore in the North. Captain Burke 
and other members of the organization received dozens of letters 
from cranks all along their proposed itinerary warning them of 
the direful things which would happen to a Southern IMilitary- Com- 
mand if it attempted such a trip. 

The Gate City Guard did not heed the warning of those letters. 
It believed that the North would receive the message of good will 
and peace in the same patriotic spirit that prompted the Guard to 
bear it. Fearful of their reception, but firmly believing that the 
North, like the South, was prepared to forget the horror of the 
recent conflict, heal old wounds, and work together for the glory 
of the Nation, the Gate City Guard left Atlanta on October 6th, 
1879. upon its peaceful invasion of the North. 

Not in its wildest dreams had the Guard expected the reception 
with which it met. The North did more than hold out its hands, 

*See book "Infantry Battalion State Pencibles and Its Visit to Atlanta and Other 
Southern Cities, 1911." 



284 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1879 

it held out its arms, and welcomed the South not as a friend, bvit as 
a brother. 

It had been the intention to make the first stop at Washington, 
but at Belle Isle, Va., the train bearing the Guard was halted un- 
expectedly and the officers of the First Virginia, the Richmond 
Light Infantry Blues and the Richmond Howitzers stepped aboard. 
By these Regiments a delightful luncheon had been prepared and 
amid patriotic speeches the mission of the Georgians was indorsed 
by the Virginians. 

The same sincere welcome met the Guard in Baltimore, in New 
York, in Philadelphia, in Hartford, in New Haven, in Boston, in 
Lawrence, Mass., and in Poughkeepsie, the last City visited. 

In these different Cities the Guards were guests at public and 
private entertainments, Mayors and Governors received them and 
entertained them, and crack local regiments did everything in their 
power to make them welcome. In every City great crowds turned 
out to welcome them in parades, to cheer them, and to indorse their 
mission. 

The "Gate City Guard," of Atlanta, Georgia, Capt. J. F. Burke, 
arrived at Philadelphia at 9 o 'clock on the morning of October 9th, 
from Baltimore, and were met with a hearty reception at the hands 
of the Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, under the command of 
Major John W. Ryan, and citizens generally. The visitors were 
received by the Fencibles at the old depot at Broad Street and 
Washington Avenue, and, after the exchange of the usual military 
courtesies, the line of march was taken up Broad to Chestnut and 
down Chestnut to Independence Hall, where Mayor Stokley wel- 
comed the "Gate City Guard" on behalf of the City of Philadel- 
phia. The order of march from the depot to Independence Hall 
was as follows: McClurg's State Fencibles Band, Infantry Bat- 
talion State Fencibles, Gate City Guard, Capt. J. F. Burke; 1st 
Lieut. W. C. Sparks. 

The Guard carried muskets, and the members wore a neat blue 
imiform. Their marching was fine, and the Command presented 
an appearance that commanded general admiration. 

The Guard was accompanied by Mayor Calhoun, of Atlanta, 
and H. L. Collier, Mr. Tye, Mr. Collins, and other gentlemen, some 
of whom held Official positions in Atlanta. A number of ladies 
were also present. 

On arriving at Independence Hall the Fencibles took position on 



1879 VISIT OF GATE CITY GUARD 285 

the State House pavement west of the statue of Washington, and the 
Guard east of the same. A large erowd was present, but the pave- 
ment and a jiortion of the street was kept clear by the reserve police. 
Before entering the hall the Guard went through a short drill, and 
the proficiency excited the admiration and applause of the spec- 
tators. 

About 10 o'ckx'k INIayor Stokley made his appearance and cnlered 
the hall, followed b}' the Guard and the officers of the Fencibles. 
The Guard was formed in a circle in the hall, when they were 
addressed by Mayor Stokley, who said: "It affords me great pleas- 
ure to welcome the citizen soldiery of Atlanta to Philadelphia, and 
particularly on the spot where, over one hundred years ago, the 
document was signed that made this a free and independent Nation. 
* * * I hope and believe that the people of all sections of the 
Union will now stand shoulder to shoulder in defense of the Nation 
which is feared and respected all over the world. We are now the 
strongest Nation on the globe, and our strength will continue and 
mcrease if the men of the North and South stand together, for we 
could do it in no better place than this, where the Declaration of 
Independence was signed, in the presence of the portraits of the 
signers, and over the identical table (laying his hand on it) where 
the document was signed. We owe it to our families and posterity 
to preserve this Union." 

The Mayor concluded by extending a warm welcome to the visi- 
tors and wished them a pleasant time and safe return to their 
homes. 

IMayor William L. Calhoun, of Atlanta, then advanced and said : 
"We have come from a distant City of the South to your magnifi- 
cent City, and, on behalf of myself and those with me. I desire to 
express the gratitude we feel at your kind welcome. I recognize 
the fact that we come from a different section of the country, but 
we all feel that we have a common destiny. This is the first visit 
North, of many of us, and we appreciate the opportunity presented 
of joining hands with our Northern brethren. We do it here on 
consecrated ground, and we here renew our vows to strengthen the 
ties that bind us to our common country. I assure you, we recipro- 
cate the brotherly greeting we have received, and return to you our 
sincere thanks for your cordial welcome." 

Capt. J. F. Burke, of the Gate City Guard, said he did not inteiul 
to make a speech, but he referred to the memories that cluster 



286 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1879 

around Independence Hall, and the feeling that animated him in 
standing near the table on which the Declaration of Independence 
was signed. He pointed to the American flag carried by the Guard, 
and said it was presented to them by citizens of Atlanta, who had 
formerly sympathized with what we are now willing to call the 
Rebellion. "We were rebels once, even as the men who signed the 
Declaration of Independence were called rebels at that time, but we 
are now true to the flag we carry, and feel that it is forever destined 
to float over the whole undivided country. It is the flag of a brave 
people, and no power can put it down. We (the South) could 
not put it down, and if we could not, there is no power on earth 
that can." 

On leaving Independence Hall, the column proceeded down 
Chestnut Street to Second, to Walnut, to Third, to Market, and out 
Market to Thirteenth, where a halt was made, and the Guard took 
street cars for the Baltimore depot, where they deposited their 
muskets and donned their special uniforms (the command using 
their special cars during the trip as dressing rooms, etc.). 

At 12.30 P. M. the visiting Guard dined at the Continental, and 
at 1.30 P. M. they took carriages in waiting at Ninth and Chestnut 
Streets, and, accompanied by the officers of the Fencibles and a com- 
mittee of the Battalion, drove out Chestnut to Broad, up Broad to 
Green, out Green to the Park entrance, through East Fairmount 
Park to the Falls Bridge, and, crossing that bridge, the drive was 
continued through West Fairmount Park to Belmont ^Mansion, 
where the whole party alighted. 

After surveying the beauties of the scene the visitors partook of 
limch at the Mansion, when they resumed their carriages and were 
driven, via Girard Avenue Bridge, to the Girard College, where 
they witnessed a drill and dress parade of the Girard College 
cadets, commanded by Major Ryan. The manoeuvres of the cadets 
elicited the most enthusiastic applause from the visitors, and at its 
close they again took their carriages and were driven to the Conti- 
nental Hotel, where they had 'supper. Later in the evening the 
Guard visited the Walnut Street Theatre, accompanied by a com- 
mittee of the Fencibles, and witnessed the "Black Crook" per- 
formance. 

The Philadelphia PuUic Ledger, October 10th, 1879, said : 

The Gate City Guard, of Atlanta, Georgia, arrived in this City- 
yesterday morning at 9, and met with a hearty reception at the 



1879 VISIT OF GATE CITY GUARD 287 

hands of the Biittalion State FciK-ibies, Major John W. Ryan ami 
citizens generally. Mayor Stoklcy welcomed the strangers on be- 
half of the City of Philadelphia. The Guards were accoinpanied 
by Mayor Calhoun, of Atlanta, and other gentlemen. 

Mayor Stokley said it afforded him great pleasure to welcome 
the citizen soldiery of Atlanta to Philadelphia and particularly on 
the spot where, over one hundred years ago, the document was 
signed that made this a free and independent nation. 

"Let us now renew our vows to hold the Union together." 

The North American, October 11th, 1879, said: 

Upon arriving at the State House, where a large number of peo- 
ple had congregated, the Gate City Guard, of Atlanta, per- 
formed a number of evolutions, showing that they were well up in 
drill. At the conclusion the Guard filed into Independence Hall, 
where Mayor Stokley, who had been previously introduced to 
Mayor Calhoun and Captain Burke, Commander of the Guard, 
made a brief address, in which he said that the North and South 
should stand shoulder to shoulder and make the United States 
a nation which would be respected throughout the length and 
breadth of the world. 

The Philadelphia Press, October 11th, 1879. said: 

Georgia's crack military organization, the Gate City Guard, 
from the Monumental City, yesterday were received by the In- 
fantry Battalion State Fencibles under the efficient command of 
Major John W. Eyan. As the Guard came on the scene, under 
the escort of Battalion State Fencibles, cheer after cheer went up 
from the crowd. The Battalion State Fencibles were drawn up in 
line on Broad Street and they saluted the visitors with military 
courtesy, after which both organizations were drawn up in line. 

The following incident occurred: Sergeant Michael Brown, of 
the Fencibles, was an old prisoner of Andersonville, and during 
a captivity of seven months, was guarded by one of the members 
of the Guard present yesterday; when asked by a companion to 
give the name, he replied, "No, not for $10,000," following the 
remark by an equally emphatic embrace of a Southern brother. 
It was a scene never to be forgotten by those who witnessed it. 

The original Gate City Guard was organized on January 8th. 
1858. When Georgia seceded in 1861 the Gate City Guard vohm- 
teered for service in a body. It was assigned to the First Georgia 
Regiment, and its Captain was immediately named ^Major of the 
Battalion. 

The Battalion was inuiiediately sent to Florida in an attempt to 



288 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1879 

capture the Federal fort at Santa Rosa. The Federals were ap- 
prised of the expedition to attack them, and the Command was 
forced to give up the attempt on account of a lack of heavy artillery, 
and the remainder of the Battalion was then ordered from Flor- 
ida to West Virginia. The Confederate army, finding the Federals 
too strong, was forced to retreat. The Gate City Guard and four 
or five other companies failed to get the order, and found them- 
selves isolated in West Virginia in the midst of a hostile army. 

For more than a week the Guard carried on a running fight from 
ambush, giving an excellent account of itself, but losing heavily on 
account of the superior numbers of the forces which it fought. 

The Guard had enlisted, as had most other southern troops, for a 
term of 12 months. Shortly before that time expired the Guard 
returned to Atlanta after the retreat from West Virginia. While 
over 100 strong at the commencement of the Virginia campaign, 
the command had been reduced to 30 men. 

On account of the small number of the survivors, it was decided 
that they should re-enlist in other commands rather than attempt 
to again complete the Company. As a result, the 30 survivors of the 
original Guard fought the last three years of the war in widely 
separated commands. 

In the early 70 's the Gate City Guard was reorganized by sev- 
eral of the original members and by j'ounger men. Capt. J. F. 
Burke, who originated the idea of the tour of '79, was elected Cap- 
tain when the command was first reorganized.* 

December 16th, the Battalion assembled at the Armory in full 
uniform with overcoats, to take part in the public reception of 
General U. S. Grant, on his return from his tour around the world. 
The parade consisted of over 7,000 troops, many from New Jersey 
and Delaware, United States Army and Marines took part in the 
demonstration. It was said to be the finest display ever made in 
this City. An immense civic procession followed the troops. 

May 26th, 1880, being the 67th Anniversary, the Battalion assem- 
bled in full uniform and made a street parade in honor of the day, 
they were out in full strength. 

On Sunday. May 29th, the Battalion having received an invita- 
tion from the Old Guard of New York, to visit that city on Decora- 
tion Day, and form one of the companies of the Red, White and 

♦See Octo. 11, 1911. for dedication of monument. 



1880 VISIT TO NEW YORK CITY 289 

Blue Battalion, iu the Decoration Day ceremonies, they assembled, 
and took the train for that City, and were met at the ferry by a 
detachment of the Old Guard, who escorted them to the Astor 
House, where the freedom of the house was extended for one hour. 
After enjoying these civilities the line of march was taken up to the 
quarters at the Metropolitan Hotel. On the march from the ferry 
no music was played, it being contrary to law for bands to play on 
the streets on Sunday. The Battalion was then dismissed until 
Monday morning. 

At 9 o'clock on the morning of the 30th. the Battalion marched to 
the place of formation of the Red, White and Blue Battalion, which 
consisted of the Albany Burgess Corps, Red Uniforms, Old Guard 
of New York, White Uniforms, and State Feucibles, Blue Uniforms. 
Along the route the Fencibles received quite an ovation, the Com- 
mander taking advantage of every halt to execute the manual for 
the edification of the immense throng that lined the sidewalks. 
After the parade was dismissed the Battalion was to have been en- 
tertained by the Old Guard at their Armory, and through some 
misunderstanding on the part of the connnanding officer, the Bat- 
talion marched to the hotel where they took dinner. Later in the 
afternoon the members learned that they had disappointed their 
friends unknowingly ; this caused much comment in the Battalion 
regarding the uncivil action of the commanding officer. Happily, 
upon the accession of W. Wes. Chew, to the command of the Bat- 
talion in 1886, the old friendship was renewed, and nothing since 
has ever occurred to mar the friendly intercourse between our Old 
Guard and the Fencibles. 

Early that evening the Fencibles left for home and while on 
the march to the ferry the Battalion formed in line in front of the 
Astor House, while the band played "Auld Lang Syne." Then 
they formed in line and marched to the ferry, w'here they departed 
for home, arriving at midnight. 

On August 6th, pursuant to orders, the Battalion assembled at the 
Armory in heavy marching order to take part in a Division Camp, 
for 8 days in West Fairmount Park. This was the first of the an- 
nual tours of camp duty provided under the law, for reorganiza- 
tion of the guard. It was certainly a beautiful place for a camp, 
the site of the Battalion was on a rise of ground near Chamonix 

19 



290 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1880 

and a most pleasant spot. This camp was not the success for dis- 
cipline as the succeeding camps, owing to the fact that it was too 
close to the City, making it impossible to keep the men in camp. 
Especially was it so, with the 1st Brigade. Being a short distance 
from home, caused many very peculiar incidents which those tak- 
ing part will ever recollect. The camp was called George G. Meade. 
On November 7th, the Battalion pursuant to orders from Brigade 
Headquarters, assembled at' the Armory and marched to thfe 
Eink at 23rd and Chestnut Streets, which had been engaged for 
the purpose of inspection. The Armory not being large enough 
to accommodate those desiring to be present. They were minutely 
inspected in condition of equipments and arms in the Company and 
Battalion drill and Guard Mount. A large number of the Officers 
of the 1st Division were present. 



CHAPTER XV. 

1881—1886. 

VISIT TO NEW YORK — INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT JAS. A. GARFIELI 
CAMP AT POTTSTOWN — ESCORT TO FRENCH DELEGATION — YORKTOWN 

CENTENNIAL LAYING CORNERSTONE FIRST REGIMENT ARMORY — 

CAMP AT LEWISTOWN — ^VISIT TO CAPE MAY — BI-CENTENNIAL LAND- 
ING OF PENN — THE ONLY LADY MEMBER OF THE FENCIBLES — GOV- 
ERNOR ROBERT E. PATTISON WASHINGTON BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION 

CAMP AT PHOENIXVILLE THE LAST SURVIVOR OF CAMP DUPONT — 

MILITARY FAIR — DEATH OF MAJOR JOHN W. RYAN — ELECTION OF W. 
WES. CHEW AS MAJOR. 

In the month of January, 1881, a large delegation of the officers 
attended the reception of the Old Guard of New York, at the 
Academy of Music in that City, where they were entertained in the 
usual style by that honored organization. 

On March 3rd, the Battalion reported at the Armory late that 
afternoon prepared to proceed to Washington, to take part in the 
inaugural ceremonies of the President-elect, James A. Garfield. 
They left in the evening, tailing a train of Pullman sleepers, which 
they used as quarters during the trip, and dined while in Washing- 
ton, at the National Hotel. On the 4th, the Battalion participated 
in the parade and review by the President. On the morning of the 
5th, they marched to the President's Mansion, at his special invi- 
tation, and were introduced to him, by His Honor, Wm. D. Kelley. 
In the evening they left for Philadelphia. 

On May 26th, the 68th Anniversary was celebrated by a parade 
in the afternoon and a hop in the evening at the Rink, 23rd and 
Chestnut Streets. 

On July 7th, a special meeting was called to take action on the 
following resolution after the attempted assassination of President 
James A. Garfield. 

Resolved, That we greet with pleasure every indication of the 
improved condition of President James A. Garfield. And that we 
humbly pray God to save his life, to an affectionate family, and a 
Nation that loves him for his courage and honesty. 

A copy of this resolution was sent to the Secretary of the State, 
James G. Blaine. 

291 



292 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1881 

On the morning of July 30th, the Battalion left the City, in 
heavy marching order, for Pottstown, to participate for 8 days, with 
the 1st Brigade in camp, located about a mile from that place. 
During this tour of duty the weather was excessively hot and dry, 
the thermometer ranging from 95 to 100 degrees each day. Strict 
discipline was exacted and on every drill and parade it was usual 
for a number of men to be overcome with the heat. One afternoon 
a practice march was ordered at 4 o'clock. During the march the 
men were dropping from the heat to such an extent that the mili- 
tary authorities were compelled to seize the wagons on the streets 
while passing through the town, to take the unfortunates to camp. 
While in town a halt was made, when the Brigade Surgeon 
promptly seized an ice wagon and distributed its contents to the 
soldiers. On their arrival in camp they could have been mistaken 
for a colored brigade such was the accumulation of dust and per- 
spiration on them. It was certainly a hot time. The morning 
camp broke, they marched to the railroad in the hot sun, not a 
breath of air was stirring ; and about one-fourth of the men gave 
out. One would have taken it for a hospital train on the way home. 

On October 27th, the Battalion assembled in the morning in full 
uniform with band and field and staff mounted, to act as escort to 
the French delegation, who had arrived in this country and were on 
their way to Yorktown to take part in the Centennial Anniversary 
of the surrender of Cornwallis to the combined American and 
French forces. The delegation spent the day in Philadelphia. 

By authority of the Governor a provisional regiment was organ- 
ized from the three brigades to represent the State of Pennsylvania 
at the Yorktown Centennial. A provisional company was formed 
from the Fencibles and Capt. George Simpson detailed to command. 
Major Ryan was in command of the 1st Battalion, composed of 
companies from the 1st Brigade. Colonel Guthrie commanded the 
Regiment. They were sent by the steamer "Galatea," from Wash- 
ington Street wharf. The trip was anything but pleasant, owing to 
an over-crowded boat, hardly fit to send on the Atlantic Ocean ; to- 
gether with stormy weather encountered. Much gladness was felt 
when they were once more on solid ground. 

At a meeting of Company E, 18th Regt., N. G. P., Duquesne 
Grays, held at Pittsburgh, November 10th, 1881, the following 
preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted : 



1882 LAYING CORNER STONE FIRST REGIMENT 29M 

Whereas, On the occasion of the visit of Company E, 18th 
Regt. N. G. P., Duquesne Grays, to the Centennial celebration at 
Yorktown, Oct. 17th to 22il, and return, the officers and members 
were most hospitably received, escorted and generously enter- 
tained, by the officers and menibers of the Battalion State Fenci- 
bles, and 

Whereas, We, the menibers of Conij)any E, 18th Regt. N. G. P., 
Duquesne Grays, desire to manifest our high appreciation of so 
generous a welcome ; it is 

Besolved, That the most cordial thanks of the members of this 
company are due and are hereby tendered to the officers and 
members of the Battalion State Fencibles in bestowing such un- 
measured hospitality and honor. 

Resolved, That we shall ever cherish the memory of that visit 
with feelings of mingled pleasure and gratitude, and with a hope 
that the future may present an occasion where in a measure we 
can reciprocate the generous reception and entertainment ex- 
tended to us by our friends in the City of Brotherly Love. 

Besolved, That a copy of the foregoing preamble and resolu- 
tions be suitably engrossed, properly signed, and transmitted to 
the Battalion State Fencibles, Philadelphia. 

Committee, 
W. L. Walther, Samuel Buchanan, Charles F. Sea, 

P. M. CULBERT, S. V. KaPPF. 

An event prominent in military affairs of the City was the cere- 
monies incident to the laying of the cornerstone of the new Armory 
of the First Regiment, N. G. P., on April 19, 3882. Henry I\r. IToyt. 
Governor of the State, as presiding officer, directed the ceremonies. 
The Mayor of the city of Philadelphia, Hon. Samuel G. King, was 
an active participant. The Twenty-second Regiment National 
Guard of the State of New York, and its Veteran Corps, were 
present as guests of the First Regiment. The First Brigade, Brig. 
Gen. Geo. R. Snowden, commanding, paraded in honor of the occa- 
sion: The Second Regiment, Col. Robert P. Dechert; Third Regi- 
ment, Col. Sylvester Bonnaffon, Jr.; State Fencibles Battalion. 
Major John W. Ryan ; Gray Invincibles, Captain John T. Kennard ; 
First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, Captain E. Burd Grubb. 

The 69th Anniversary was celebrated on May 26th, by a field day 
in Fairmount Park. The members w^ere accompanied by their 
families and friends. In the afternoon the Battalion gave an exhi- 
bition drill. 

On August 2nd, the Battalion left the City, in the evening, in 
heavy marching order for Lewistowm, IMififlin Co., for an 8 day tour 



294 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1882 

of camp duty. The entire Guard of the State was under canvas. 
Strict discipline was exacted and the men were kept busy each day, 
until sundown. The camp was located in a very beautiful coimtry. 
One of the Fencibles, Herman Dock, sunk a well twelve feet in 
diameter and twenty feet deep, which gave an abundant supply of 
good water during that encampment. A visit to this site ten years 
later found the well in good condition, with plenty of pure water. 

In September, the Battalion received an invitation from Crump 
Bros., proprietors of Congress Hall at Cape May, and accordingly 
left the City early in the morning of the 9th, arriving at 10 o'clock. 
They were well entertained by their hosts. The Battalion returned 
to the City the following afternoon. 

In October, w^as the three-days celebration of the Bi-centennial 
of the landing of William Penn, and the settlement of Philadelphia. 
The first day was Allegorical spectacle of the landing of the founder 
at Dock St. Wharf. The second day was a military pageant of the 
entire National Guard of Pennsylvania, and many visiting organ- 
izations from other states. Gen. Phil. Sheridan, U. S. A., was Chief 
Marshal, and reviewed the column on North Broad Street. The 
third day was the civic parade of societies of the various manu- 
facturing and mercantile establishments. During this celebration 
the President of the United States, Grover Cleveland, and many 
National dignitaries were guests of the City. 

On December 20th, the Battalion gave a benefit at the Walnut 
Street Theatre. Miss Anderson, the beautiful American actress, 
appeared in "Ingomar the Barbarian." After the performance 
Miss Anderson was presented with a beautiful silver crown bj^ the 
Battalion. The presentation was made by Charles Emery Smith, 
Esq., after Mhich each member of the Battalion had the pleas- 
ure of shaking hands with this distinguished actress. On January 
10th, 1883, Miss Anderson was elected an Honorary member, she 
being the only female ever elected to membership. 

During the month of January, 1883, our retired President, Rob- 
ert E. Pattison, was inaugurated as Governor of Pennsylvania and 
Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard. The Battalion had 
made all the preparations to attend the ceremonies at Harrisburg, 
and had tendered him an escort to that City, but owing to his desire 
that there should be no pomp or display on that occasion, he de- 
clined the honor. The excursion was indefinitely postponed. I 
take occasion to remark in these pages that the Governor was a 



18S3 WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY— ANNIVERSARY «2f).-, 

faithful member, non-commissioned officer, and president oT the 
Fencibles, and as Chief Executive of this great Commonwealtli. 
honest and faithful to the people. During both terms as Governor, 
he was a firm friend of the National Guard. 

On February 22nd, Washington's Birthday, the Battalion pa- 
raded in the afternoon with band and drum corps. The day was 
cloudy and threatening and as there had been rain and snow the 
day before, it was very unpleasant under foot; however, the Bat- 
talion made the best of it and carried out their programme, which 
was a parade through the City and a dress parade in front of the 
Union League, after which a review took place by the ]\Iayor, Sam- 
uel B. King, and James J. Barclay,* one of the two survivors of 
the original company in 1813. The Battalion then returned to the 
Armory. 

At this time the 1st Regiment, who occupied the greater part 
of the City Armory, were erecting an Armory for themselves, and 
would probably vacate their quarters by the end of the year. The 
Battalion held a meeting and adopted the following resolution : 

Eesolved, That a committee be appointed with Major Ryan as 
chairman, to endeavor to get a long lease on the building from the 
City Councils at a nominal figure that will warrant extended alter- 
ations to the building, and to draft an ordinance to present to 
Councils and prevail on them to pass it; and they shall have suit- 
able plans prepared, and submit them to the Board for approval of 
such alterations as may be deemed necessary for the proper ac- 
commodations of the several companies and the Board of Officers. 
All money for the building purposes shall be at the disposal of the 
Board and deposited by the treasurer for building purposes. It 
was also resolved, that the Officers of the Battalion constitute the 
building committee. 

On May 27th, the Battalion celebrated their 70th Anniversary 
by attending divine service in full dress uniform, accompanied by 
the band. 

The Battalion having received an invitation from the managers 
of the Stockton Hotel, Cape May, accepted it, and assembled at the 
Armor}' on the afternoon of June 30th, with their band and drum 
corps and marched to the ferry at the foot of Market Street, where 
they crossed the river and took a special train, furnished through 
the courtesy of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and arrived 
at Cape May at 5 o'clock. Here they were met and escorted to 

•Robert H. Small being tbe other survivor. 



296 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1883 

their quarters by Company PI, National Guard of New Jersey. Dur- 
ing the evening the members were at liberty to enjoy themselves 
as they desired. After breakfast the next morning, Sunday, the 
Battalion assembled and marched to Congress Hall, where they 
presented the proprietors, the Crump Brothers, a handsome testi- 
monial, in return for the generous treatment and entertainment of 
the Battalion on their visit last year. During the afternoon the offi- 
cers of the Battalion were magnificently entertained by General 
Sewall and a number of prominent friends, after which a Battalion 
drill and dress parade was held on the lawn in front of the Stock- 
ton Hotel. After supper, a dress parade was given in full uniform, 
with white pants, and was witnessed by an immense concourse of 
people. Late in the afternoon they took the train for home. 

On August 11th, in accordance with orders from Brigade Head- 
quarters, the Battalion assembled in the morning in State uniform 
heavy marching order, to proceed to Phoenixville to camp with the 
1st Brigade for 8 days. The camp was located just outside the 
town and was named ' ' Camp McCall, ' ' and was very pleasantly sit- 
uated with good water and good sanitary arrangements. Perfect 
discipline was maintained at this camp and great attention paid to 
the military instruction. The attendance of the Battalion, on 
this tour of duty was very good, 224 men being present. 

Sunday afternoon drew an immense crowd from the neighbor- 
hood to witness the Brigade dress parade. A bit of gossip of the 
occasion for what it is worth, is thus transmitted to posterity in 
a special despatch to the Press of the days doing : 

* ' I want to see the General, ' ' said a brown eyed little beauty 
to one of the pickets on duty near the outskirts of the camp. 
' ' Which one ? ' ' asked the sentry, halting and coming to a carry 
arms. "Why the handsome one," was the reply; "its no harm 
to look at him, is it ? I 've forgotten his name, but he 's awfully 
nice." "Don't know who you mean," replied the soldier, with a 
smile. "All of them are pretty good lookers." "Go down there 
to the Feneibles' camp and see Major Eyan. Won't cost you 
anything to look at him, ' ' and the picket came to a right shoulder, 
wheeled, and resumed his tramp.* 

On September lltli Robert H. Small, one of the two survivors of 
the original company of 1813, died on that day.f 

*Latta's History First Regiment, page 290. 

t.lames J. Barclay being the other survivor. See page 303. 



1883 FAIR AT INDUSTRIAL HALL 297 

On October 8th, the Battalion paraded, having accepted an in- 
vitation from the Bi-centennial Committee of German citizens to 
celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the settlement of Germantovvn 
by their countrymen. The Fencibles were on the right of the mil- 
itary division and received their usual ovation along the route. A 
large number of historical floats were in the procession which made 
a beautiful display and very creditable parade. 

During the rest of this year all outside demonstrations were 
avoided, their attention was given to preparing for the grand 
fair of the Battalion, which was to take place at Industrial Hall 
on November !10th. The members and their lady friends were 
kept busy with preparations to insure its success and were re- 
ceiving every encouragement. This fair was given to aid the 
building fund. 

The following is a roster of the Fair Committee : Maj. John W. 
Ryan, Q. M. E. S. McGlue, Jr., Com. George L. Eastman, Q. U. 
Sergt. H. C. Tarr, Adjt. Charles Berger, Chap. Richard H. Allen, 
Sergt. Maj. James Stimmel, Com. Sergt. John H. Benner, Hospital 
Steward Robert J. Kelley. 

Company A. — Capt. George W. Moser, Lieut. William Witherup. 
Lieut. H. C. Rottenbury, Sergt. "William Earley, Sergt. Harry C. 
George, Corp. A. P. Huckel, Corp. Thomas Ewing, Priv. W. L. ]\L 
Thompson, Priv. F. W. Lawrence, Priv. J. T. Murdock. 

Company B. — Capt. W. Wes. Chew, Lieut. W. H. Schwab, Lieut. 
G. J. Lomasney, Sergt. Harry Beck, Sergt. George W. Nuttz, Corp. 
A. Herr, Priv. A. Hoekstadter, Priv. Theo. Odenath, Priv. Richard 
Thomas, Priv. Birdsall Wilber. 

Company C. — Capt. E. E, Packer, Lieut. George Warner, Lieut. 
William Henry, Sergt. William Lockerman, Sergt. William Mc- 
Fetridge, Corp. Jacob Clynier, Corp. H. Hoffman, Corp. George 
Somers, Corp. George Ruth, Corp. Edw, Sternberger. 

Company D. — Capt. J. H. Sutterlee, Lieut. T. T. Brazer, Lieut. 
John Conner, Sergt. Patrick Coonan, Sergt. R. L. Barry, Corp. 
John McGuire, Corp. H. Boneface, Corp. L. Dorsey, Corp. Welling- 
ton Bird, Corp. Theo. Warner. 

Drum Corps. — Drum Maj. Edw. Williams, Sergt. D. S. Moore, 
Priv. John Rock, Priv. Charles Lamb. 

On November 10th, occurred the opening of the great fair of the 
State Fencibles at Industrial Hall, on Broad Street above Vine, in 
aid of the building fund. The doors opened at 7 o'clock in the 



298 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1883 

evening. The arrangements for this fair had been in progress for 
several months and were brought to consummation in a manner that 
was a surprise to the thousands of persons who were fortunate 
enough to be present at the opening. The large building was 
packed with people all eager to see the splendid decorations and 
immense array of goods of various kinds displayed. The formal 
opening was to have been of a distinguished character, but owing to 
the immense assemblage it opened itself and commenced business 
until 9 o'clock, at which time it was formally opened by Col. Wm. 
B. Smith, then President of Select Councils. The business, the 
music, the enthusiasm, and in fact everything connected with the 
fair was simply astonishing and a surprise to all. They went to 
work with a will, and our friends showed as much zeal as the mem- 
bers. It was estimated that 10,000 persons were present that 
evening; there was scarcely room to move about. The fair con- 
tinued 14 days with great success every evening, including mat- 
inees every Wednesday and Saturday for school children at re- 
duced rates. On the closing night it was more densely packed 
than the first night. At 10 o'clock the main prizes were drawn 
from the wheel, after which the business continued until midnight, 
when the fair was formally closed, and pronounced a wonderful 
success financially. Three ladies of the fair committee collected 
alone over $3,000 worth of goods, one lady was aAvarded a beautiful 
gold watch for making the largest collection. On the evening of 
the 26th, all goods left over were auctioned off with good results, 
enough money was made from the fair to warrant the alteration 
contemplated to the Armory. 

In December, the building committee, appointed on May 7th, 
consisting of Major Ryan, Captain Chew, Captain Moser, Captains 
Packer and Sutterlee, Adjutant Berger and Quartermaster McGlue, 
was increased by the addition of all the Commissioned Officers. They 
held a meeting and adopted plans for alterations of the Armory, 
and bids were solicited from prominent builders to commence alter- 
ations of the building as soon as vacated by the First Regiment. 

At the stated meeting in January, 1884, in order to comply with 
the provisions of the charter, the following were elected Civil Of- 
ficers for that year : President, Maj. John W. Ryan ; Secretary, 
Lieut. Charles Berger; Treasurer, Capt. J. Sutterlee. 

Owing to the alterations about to be made to the Armory, quar- 
ters were secured February 13th, on the fourth floor of 1909 



1884 CAMP AT GETTYSBURG 299 

Market Street, which were being fitted up for the use of the Bat- 
talion, and were nearly ready for occupancy. On February 21st, 
after the usual drill, the Battalion, in heavy marching order, ac- 
companied by the drum corps, marched to its temporary quarters. 

On February 24th, the Battalion assembled in the afternoon 
(Sunday), to attend the funeral of their late comrade, J. B. Pugh, 
who was murdered on election night at 13th and Callowhill Streets. 
After performing the usual military ceremonies they returned to 
their (juartors. 

On August 2nd, in obedience to orders from Division Headquar- 
ters, the Battalion assembled in heavy marching order that after- 
noon, and marched to Broad and Washington Avenue, where they 
entrained at 6.15, and proceeded to Gettysburg, to take part in 
the division camp at that place. After a tiresome night's ride they 
arrived before daylight, detraining in a heavy fog, which caused 
some difficulty in finding their position. Finally they were met by 
some of the advance detail who conducted the Battalion to the 
camp. This was pleasantly situated and directly in front of the 
bloody angle, on the ground which General Pickett's Division 
crossed in their attempt to break the line of the Union Army on 
July 3rd, 1863. This camp was a great success in every way, the 
men were kept close to duty in drills, reviews and inspection, and 
were given opportunity to inspect this historic battlefield. The 
Commander-in-chief, Governor Robert E. Pattison was in camp 
during the entire week. The only objectional feature to this site 
was the limited railroad accommodations; it being on a single track 
branch road connecting with the main line, which caused a delay 
of 15 hours before the last of the troops, consisting of 9,000 men, 
could get transportation. The Fencibles were the last to leave the 
ground, and arrived home late, the afternoon of the 10th. 

On September 22nd, the new Armory having been finished and 
ready for occupancy, orders No. 9, were issued from Battalion 
Headquarters, to assemble in the evening, in heavy marching order. 
They marched to the Armory and took formal possession of the 
same, which had been fitted up with every convenience, at the cost 
of $100,000, the entire amount having been raised by the Fencibles. 
After the Battalion had been dismissed, the companies each took 
possession of their company rooms and held their first meeting in 
the new quarters; each company having fitted out its rooms to 
its taste and at its own expense. 



300 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1884 

On October 8th, Company B assembled that afternoon to attend 
the funeral of their late comrade, Sergt. James Welsh, who died 
after a short illness. They were accompanied by the Weccacoe 
Band, the usual military honors were performed at the grave. 

October 2-lth, the Battalion assembled in full dress uniform in 
the evening for drill, which they performed in elegant style and 
were loudly applauded by the large assemblage present. After the 
drill a beautiful Memorial Window was presented by the ' ' Biddle 
family ' ' to the Battalion, in memorial of the first Captain, Clement 

C. Biddle. It was presented by his son, George W. Biddle, and was 
received in behalf of the Battalion by the Hon. William D. Kelley. 
The window was placed in its position in the rear of the main hall. 

On October 28th, the Armory was opened for inspection that 
afternoon and many prominent persons were present, among whom 
were Governor Pattison, Generals Hartranft, Snowden and Latta, 
Colonels Hassinger and Goddard, Messrs. John Wanamaker, 
Knight, Arrott, and many other military men and civil visitors. 
Many subscriptions were made to the Armory fund during the 
afternoon. 

On December 1st, the Battalion received a beautiful memorial 
window sent from London, by Mrs. Hugh Hallett, nee Emily 
Von Shomburg (a niece of the late Col. James Page, who com- 
manded the Corps for many years), in memory of her uncle. This 
was placed in its position in the rear of the drill floor. 

On January 10th, 1885, the death of Capt. Wm. M. Baugh, A. 

D. C. on Brigade Staff under General Loud, who died at his resi- 
dence on this date, was recorded. He was a young officer of prom- 
ise, an Honorary member of the Fencibles, and a very close friend 
of the members of the Battalion. 

On February 1st. Company D paraded in the afternoon to at- 
tend the funeral of their late comrade. Private 'Conner, and per- 
formed the usual military honors at his grave. 

On the 13th, Company B gave a masquerade reception in the 
Armory, which was largely attended. The costumes were very fine 
and many original characters were introduced to the enjoyment of 
all present. 

On the 17th, Company A held a roller skating party and full 
dress reception in the evening, introducing some novel features 
in that line, which were very interesting and enjoyable. 

On March 2nd, in accordance with orders from Brigade Head- 




Posse ngrer Locomotive Ato fcfcS | 



Loco/notivc »ds Built at AUootit{ 

thaii rctt 218033 initeH toJm '»'■ 
Fncmemfl* William Abnidjf 



IT 5l<»</ Af- A^ »ft We4^^»-n Rauii<l »^' 




THIS BELL WAS PRESENTED TO STATE FEXCIULES OC'TOBEK. IS, 1877. 



1885 INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT CLEVELAND 3()1 

quarters to assemble in Washington, D. C, to take part witli the 
Division in the inaugural ceremonies of President-elect Grover 
Cleveland, and having permission to make our own arrangements 
as to time and comfort, the Battalion assembled in the Armory at 
7 P. M., in State uniform, heavy marching order, and marched to 
Broad and Washington Avenue and entrained for their destination. 
Arriving there on the morning of the 3rd, at 6 A. M., they detrained 
and marched to the quarters that their committee had prepared. 
During the afternoon the Brigade paraded on Capitol Hill and was 
reviewed by General Ilartranft. On the morning of the ■1th, the Bat- 
talion joined the division in the inaugural parade, and were splend- 
idly received by the spectators along the route for their fine manual 
and steady marching. The weather was splendid during the trip 
and every thing was satisfactory except the commissary arrange- 
ments; the contracting parties having failed in carrying out the 
arrangements made with the committee, which compelled most of 
the members to provide for themselves at other places. They left 
for home on the evening of the 4th, and arrived early on the 5th, 
several hours before the rest of the Brigade. 

On April 1st and 15th, the Battalion lost by death two of its old 
members, James McColgan, formerly Alderman in the 5tli Ward, 
and Charles Hofflefinger. There was no military display, bj^ the de- 
sire of their families. 

During the month, the Battalion received with pleasure, the an- 
nouncement that President Cleveland had appointed Capt. Wm. J. 
Volkmar, of the 5th U. S. Cavalry and Chief of Staff of Gen. Philip 
Sheridan, to the position of A. A. G. U. S. A., with the rank of 
Major. Major Volkmar was formerly a member of the Fencibles 
under Captain Page, and was known to be a bright and talented 
officer. 

The 72nd Anniversary occuring on Sunday, May 26th, the Bat- 
talion commemorated it by attending divine service at the Fifth 
Baptist Church, 18th and Spring Garden Streets, where an eloquent 
sermon was delivered by the Rector, The Rev. John Peddie. The 
Battalion w^as represented by a strong turnout and were accom- 
panied by the drum corps. 

In the beginning of the month of July, there was in West 
Fairmount Park, a National Encampment of troops from sev- 
eral states and United States Troops. While it was not the success 
that was intended in numbers, there was good discipline observed 



302 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1885 

and many of the organizations were nearly perfect in their drill. 
As the camp was about to end after July 4th, and no provision be- 
ing made to entertain them while here, the hospitable spirit which 
is hereditary in the Fencibles, became aroused, and with the as- 
sistance of their many friends the movement to entertain them took 
effect, and on July 4th, they had in service several large express 
wagons loaded with cans of ice cream, cakes, bananas, oranges, etc. ; 
before noon every organization was supplied. 

The Officers of all the Commands were invited to a dinner at the 
Belmont Mansion by the Officers of the Fencibles, where they had 
a pleasant time, and expressed their appreciation for the attention 
and good fellowship shown to themselves and to their men by the 
Fencibles. They then returned to the Armory and entertained the 
Bush Zouaves and Branch Guards from St. Louis, who were quar- 
tered in the Armory, previous to their departure for New York. 

At a meeting of the Indianapolis Light Infantry, held the elev- 
enth day of July, 1885, the following resolutions were unanimously 
adopted : 

Whereas, This Company has recently visited Philadelphia, a 
City noted for its beauty and hospitality, and has spent a delight- 
ful week encamped in that justly famed and most beautiful of all 
parks ' ' Fairmount, ' ' and, 

Whereas, The citizen soldiery of the City of Philadelphia have 
been particularly fortunate in maintaining their reputation for 
kind treatment and generous entertainment of visiting comrades, 
and 

Whereas, We are under obligations to many new found friends 
who were instrumental in making that visit continuously pleasant; 
therefore, be it 

Eesolved, That feeling especially indebted to the State Fenci- 
bles Battalion for courtesy and kindness shown us, we embrace 
this opportunity of returning our heartfelt thanks; therefore, 

Hesolved, That a copy of these resolutions be spread upon the 
minutes, and that a copy be transmitted to our friends in token 
of our wishes for their continued happiness and prosperity. 

H. M. PiXON, 'N 

L. M. Brown, K. Committee. 
J. H. Oliver, J 

July 8th. Company A assembled at the Armory in the afternoon 
under the command of Captain Witherup, to attend the funeral 



1885 THE SURVIVOR OF CAMP DUPONT ;{();] 

of tlieir late comrade, F. Probasco. They were accoinpanied by 
the Metropolitan Band, and marched to Mount Peace Cemetery, 
where the usual volleys were fired over the grave. 

On July 25th, in accordance with orders received from Brigade 
Headquarters the Battalion assembled at the Armory in the morn- 
ing in heavy marching order for the annual tour of camp duty. 
The Battalion formed and marched to the depot at 32nd and Chest- 
nut Streets, and took the train for Elwin, near ]\Iedia, to camp by 
Brigade. The morning was intensely hot and oppressive, and the 
men suffered severely on their march to the depot. Upon their 
arrival at Elwin the Battalion marched to its position in camp, 
which had been erected by an advance detail. It was pleasantly 
located but very crowded. The discipline in camp was well main- 
tained and much attention was given to field duties. The atten- 
dance at camp by the Battalion, was very creditable, mustering 225 
out of a membership of 232. They returned home on the afternoon 
of August 1st, greatly benefitted by their 8 days tour of duty. 

On August 16th, James J. Barclay, the last survivor of the orig- 
inal company of Fencibles, passed away, and was buried on the 
19th, in Christ Church ground, 5th and Arch Streets, within a few 
feet of his original Captain, Clement C. Biddle. The members at- 
tended the funeral in citizens dress. 

After much preparation, on November 14th the second fair took 
place, and was formally opened by Col. WilUam B. Smith. While 
this fair was well attended there was not the enthusiasm that was 
so noted in the first one, although every inducement was offered to 
please and draw attention, but owing to the depression in business 
that existed at that time, it required much thought and work to 
insure its success. There was not the life, there was not the at- 
tendance, nor was it the financial success of the fair two years be- 
fore. Money was too scarce and while they had a profit, it was 
small. The fair closed on the 28th, and on the 30th the goods left 
were auctioned off. The remainder of the year was spent in set- 
tling up the business of the fair, which yielded but small returns 
for the immense labor performed. 

On January 13th, 1886, a resolution was adopted by the Board 
of Officers to issue bonds to the amount of $10,000, at 6 per cent, 
interest, in order to clear the indebtedness assumed in the altera- 
tions of the Armory. This was resorted to, owing to the financial 



304 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 188G 

failure of the fair, and to pay the debts contracted for the altera- 
tions. 

On February 10th, the death of Maj. Gen. W. S. Hancock, U. S. 
A., at his home in Norristown, was announced. Suitable resolutions 
were adopted by the Battalion in memory of the deceased, that the 
colors should be draped and the usual badge of mourning be worn 
for 30 days as a mark of respect for Pennsylvania's Veteran Sol- 
dier. 

On May 26th, the 73rd Anniversary of the organization was cele- 
brated by a parade of the Battalion in full dress uniform, and a 
dress parade in front of the Union League. They were out in full 
strength and were accompanied by the Metropolitan Band and the 
drum corps. 

On June 9th, a delegation of the officers went to New York in 
the morning for the purpose of presenting a large floral ship, an 
offering from the Battalion to Hamilton Disston, who was departing 
on a trip to Europe to recruit his health, as an expression of 
gratitude of the Battalion for the many favors received from him 
and for the interest he has always taken in the welfare of the 
organization. 

On July 10th, in accordance to orders from Headquarters, the 
Battalion assembled in the morning for an 8 day tour of camp 
duty. This was the first of the Regimental Camps to take place 
every third year, and the site selected by the Commanding Of- 
ficer was Andalusia, Bucks County, Pa., on the Biddle estate at 
that place. The camp was called Camp Clement C. Biddle, in honor 
of its first Commander. Owing to a continued illness of the Com- 
manding Officer, Major Ryan, was not expected to be present; 
but the Battalion was agreeably surprised when he made his ap- 
pearance in uniform. However, on the 12th, his condition became 
so serious that Surgeon Bloomer advised his return at once. In his 
absence the command devolved on Capt. W. Wes. Chew. Great 
attention was given to the company drills and the dress parades 
which were held daily. The Metropolitan Band accompanied the 
Battalion and gave concerts in the evening at headquarters. On 
the 15th, Governor Robert E. Pattison and his Staff, Major and Bri- 
gade General and Staffs visited the camp. The Battalion was in- 
spected, and in the evening a grand display of fire works ended the 
programme. On the morning of the 17th, the Battalion broke camp 
and proceeded by train to Belmont, in "West Fairmoimt Park, to be 



1886 DKATH OF MAJOR RYAN ;^()5 

reviewed by the Governor. The day was extremely hot and many 
men were overcome with the heat. 

During the tour of camp duty a telegram was received from 
Major Rj^an protesting against the re-election of certain officers of 
Company C. Considerable trouble had arisen over the re-elec- 
tion, and Lieut. Wm. Schwab was detailed to command the Com- 
pany during the tour of camp duty. Shortly after camp, upon 
application of Captain Chew, Commanding the Battalion, the Gov- 
ernor disbanded Company C, the same, however, was immediately 
reorganized from the loyal members of the former Company. 

On October 22nd, Capt. W. Wes. Chew published the following 
announcement : 

After a lingering illness Major John W. Ryan died this morn- 
ing, at 1.45 A. M., at his residence, having passed away peace- 
fully in the presence of his family, and Captains Brazer, Packer 
and Adjutant Berger. This is a severe affiction for his family, 
and also a great loss to the Battalion. He was a Commander of 
ability and energy, and a brave soldier. From early manhood his 
inclinations and jJursuits were of a military character. As a sol- 
dier, he won the confidence of both ofiicers and men, as well as 
of his superiors. As a citizen, he was always ready to uphold the 
law, and throughout his long illness he displayed the same cour- 
ageous spirit which marked his career through life. To his en- 
ergy and perseverance was mainly due the formation and success 
of the Battalion. We therefore, as good soldiers, bow to the will 
of a Supreme Commander, who in His wisdom has seen proper 
to remove from our midst our beloved Commander. 

Phila., October 22d, 1886. 
Special Orders No. 7. 

The members of the Battalion will assemble at the Armory this 
evening at 8.30 o 'clock, to take action on the death of our late 
Commander, John W. Ryan. 

By order of W. Wes Chew, 

Capt. Commanding Batt. 
Charles Berger, 
Adj't. 

At this meeting suitable resolutions were adopted, the Armory 
was ordered to be draped in mourning and the officers to wear a 
badge of mourning for 60 days. 

On October 23rd, a special meeting of the Old Guard was called 

20 



306 ^'^'^ HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1886 

and suitable resolutions were passed. The following order was 
issued : 

Abmory Old Guard, 
Oct. 23(i, 1886. 
The members of the Old Guard will assemble at the Armory at 
1.30 P. M., on the 25th inst., to attend the funeral of our late 
Comrade John W. Ryan. 

Black suits and silk hats will be worn. Badges will be fur- 
nished. 

By order of Edward E. Packer, 

Connnander. 
Charles Glen t worth, 
Adj't. 

The arrangements for the funeral were placed by the family in 
the hands of Captain "Witherup and Adjutant Berger, who were 
also detailed by the Battalion to make the necessary arrangements 
for the funeral parade. 

On the morning of the 25th, the remains of Major Ryan was es- 
corted by a guard of honor from his residence to the Armory, where 
his body lay in state until the hour of the funeral. Thousands of 
citizens viewed the body and at 2.30 P. M. services were held by the 
Chaplain, after which the cortege formed and marched to ]Monu- 
ment Cemetery in the following order : 

Detachment of Keystone Battery with one gun, 

Lieut. Col. Wendell P. Bowman, 

Metropolitan Band, 

Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, 

Girard College Band, 

Girard College Cadets, 

Alltic Band, 

Anna Ross Post No. 94, G. A. R., 

Clergy arnl Surgeons, 

Caisson bearing remains. 

Pallbearers, 

Mourners, 

Ex-Members of Co. A. Phila. Fire Zouaves, 

Old Guard State Fencibles, 

Ex-Members of State Fencibles, 

Survivors of the 17th, 23rd, 61st, and 21.5th Penna. Vol , 

Officers of the National Guard of Penna., 

Keystone Lodge A. Y. M., 

West Phila. Lodge A. O. U. W., 

Cameron Club, 

Citizens. 



1886 FUNERAL OF MAJOR RYAN 307 

Masonic services were held at the cemetery, also Grand Army 
services by Post 94, after which three volleys were fired by the Bat- 
talion and taps sounded, and thus ended the ceremonies for the tem- 
porary interment. 

General Latta, in his History of the First Regiment, page 313, 
said: 

Major Jolin W. Ryan, coninianding the State Fencibles Bat- 
talion, who carried witli him the sears of battle and the honors of 
war as a soldier of the Sixty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and 
who, through his special aptitude as a tactician and disciplinarian, 
had won for his Battalion a nation-wide fame, died on the morn- 
ing of October 22, 1886. His death was announced to the Regi- 
ment in a general order of that day, and " as a mark of respect 
to his memory" the flag was directed to be displayed at half 
staff at the Regimental Armory until after the funeral. The of- 
ficers of the Regiment in uniform and with the usual badge of 
mourning, were in attendance as a body at his funeral on the 
25th inst. 

Thus passed from our midst a good and faithful Connnander, a 
brave soldier, whose every thought and energy was devoted to the 
interests of the Fencibles. Shortly after, his body was moved to 
Woodland Cemetery. The following order was issued from Brigade 
Headquarters by Brig. Gen. George R. Snowden : 

It becomes the melancholy duty of the General Conunanding, to 
announce to the Brigade the death of one of its most valued Of- 
ficers. Major John W. Ryan expired on the 22nd, after a painful 
and lingering illness. Major Ryan coming early in life to 
America, gave his services in the war among the first to the cause 
of the country which he was henceforth to call his own, serving 
meritoriously throughout the conflict and was in many battles in 
the Army of the Potomac. On the restoration of peace he entered 
the National Guard of the State, and subsequently became what 
the history of the Battalion will undoubtly show him to have been, 
one of the most efficient Commanders of the State Fencibles Battal- 
ion, which he raised to a distinguished condition of perfection. The 
loss of an Officer so gallant in war, and one whose every aspiration 
for the highest attainments of the National Guard was the constant 
attendant of his every effort for its success, and whose fidelity 
to duty ended only with his life, affords the General Commanding, 
an opportunity to record his appreciation of such services, and to 
express a profound sorrow at his death. The officers of the 
Brigade are directed to wear the usual badge of mourning on the 



308 O^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES ISSlJ 

arm and sword hilt, and are invited to assemble at the head- 
quarters of the Brigade in uniform on the afternoon of Monday 
the 25th inst., at 2 o'clock, to attend the funeral. 
By command of, 

Brig. Gen. George R. Snowden. 
Robert Vaux, 

Captain and A. D. C. 

On the evening of November 18th, in accordance to orders from 
Brigade Headquarters an election was held at the Armory for 
Major, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Major Ryan. 
Major Krumbharr conducted the election. Gen. George R. Snowden 
and a number of his Staff were present. The ballot resulted in the 
unanimous election of Capt. W. "Wes. Chew. The new Commander 
was a member for many years, and an Officer for several years in 
the Battalion, beginning his career as a private, and was a thor- 
ough Fencible in heart and training. A polished gentleman, an ex- 
cellent tactician, and strict disciplinarian, and during his term as 
Commander advanced the standing of the Battalion by devoting 
his time and attention to its interests, and perfecting it, in its drill. 
The results will be found in the later pages of this history, which 
was due to his untiring energy. After the election, the officers and 
their guests were entertained by the new Commander, at Shuster's 
Cafe, 8th and Arch Streets. Speeches were made by Major Chew, 
General Snowden, Major Krumbharr, Captain Witherup and 
others. 



CHAPTER XVI. 1 

1887—1897. 

INAUGURATION OF GOVERNOR BEAVER — VISIT OF GATLING GUN COMPANY 
OF CAMDEN — 74tH ANNIVERSARY OF CORPS — DECORATION OF GRAVE 
OF MAJOR RYAN — UNVEILING OF STATUE OF GEN. MEADE — BAT- 
TALION BALL AT ACADEMY OF MUSIC — CAMP AT NORRISTOWN — NEW 
UNIFORM ADOPTED INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT HARRISON — CEN- 
TENNIAL OF THE INAUGURATION OF GEN. GEO. WASHINGTON AS 

PRESIDENT — THE JOHNSTOWN FLOOD CAMP AT BRISTOL — DEATH OP 

GEN. JOHN F. HARTRANFT — VISIT TO NEW YORK — SECOND BATTERY 
N. G. N. Y. — CAMP AT MT. GRETNA — ANCIENT AND HONORABLE AR- 
TILLERY OF BOSTON — AN ODD PARADE — FENCIBLES CALLED OUT 

CAMP AT DEVON WILLIAM A. WITHERUP ELECTED MAJOR COMPANY 

'a' VISIT TO POTTSTOWN — HOMESTEAD RIOTS — FENCIBLES WITH 
EVERY MEMBER PRESENT — INAUGURATION OP PRESIDENT CLEVELAND 

— ANNIVERSARY PARADE IN THE EVENING THURBER T. BRAZER 

ELECTED MAJOR — CAMP AT TORRESDALE — DIVISION CAMP AT GETTY'S- 
BURG CAMP AT SANATOGA — DEDICATION OF GRANT 's TOMB. 

On January 17th, 1887, in accordance to orders from headquar- 
ters the Battalion assembled at the Armory in the afternoon in 
winter uniform. After formation they marched to Broad Street 
Station, Pennsylvania Railroad, entrained at 3.10 for Harrisburg, 
to take part in the inaugural ceremonies of the Governor-elect, 
General Beaver. Arriving at that place they marched to the 
Bolton House, engaged as headquarters. During the evening the 
Battalion, with their band, serenaded Governor Robert E. Pattison 
and General Beaver, and some of the newspaper offices. On the 
morning of the 18th. the Battalion formed for the parade. The 
weather was intensely cold, with high winds, but the boys stood it 
manfully and while waiting for the inaugural ceremony to be con- 
cluded, were treated very kindly by the residents where they were 
halted. The appearance of the Battalion was specially noted in the 
papers of Harrisburg and Philadelphia. They left for home late 
in the afternoon and arrived before midnight. 

309 



310 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1887 

On February 20th, the Battalion having received an invitation 
from the 1st Regiment to attend divine service to be held in their 
Armory, they assembled in full dress uniform and marched to that 
place, where they listened to an eloquent sermon from the Chaplain 
of the Regiment. 

On February 24th, the Battalion paraded in the evening for the 
purpose of paying a visit to the Gatling Gun Company of Camden, 
New Jersey, who were giving a reception. While there the Battal- 
ion gave an exhibition drill. 

On May 26th, the 74th Anniversary, the Battalion assembled at 
the Armory in full dress uniform in the afternoon, and made a 
short parade, stopping in front of the Union League, where they 
gave a dress parade, after which they marched to Pennsylvania 
Avenue and took the cars for Belmont in West Fairmount Park. 
After partaking of a supper at the Mansion it was intended to have 
a Battalion drill and dress parade, but owing to a severe thunder 
storm prevailing, after reaching the Mansion, the drill did not 
take place. After the storm had abated, the Battalion took the 
train and returned to the City. 

Sunday, May 29th, the Battalion assembled in the afternoon and 
marched to Woodland Cemetery, where they decorated the grave 
of their Past Commander, John W. Ryan. 

On September 13th, Company A, Captain Witherup, was detailed 
to receive and escort Governor Larrabee and the Dubuque Grays of 
Iowa, who had come to take part in the Constitutional Centennial. 
His headquarters were established at the Aldine Hotel. Both or- 
ganizations made a parade down Chestnut Street and then re- 
turned to the Armory, where the ''Grays" were quartered. The 
route down Chestnut Street was brilliantly illuminated with col- 
ored fire. Upon arriving at the Armory they were welcomed by 
Major Chew, after which a splendid collation was served. On the 
14th, the}^ were taken in barouches to the Park, and in the after- 
noon to Brewerytown. The evening was spent visiting various 
places of amusement. On the 15th, the Fencibles and the Grays took 
part in the military parade in which the local as well as the visiting 
Militia were represented. On the 16th, the Grays left for New 
York. 

The Battalion took part with the Brigade on the afternoon of 
October 18th, in the ceremonv incident to the unveiling of the 




MA.IOU W. WESLEV CHEW. 



1887 THANKSGIVING DAY— ANNIVERSARY 311 

Equestrian Statue of Gen. George Gordon Meade, in West Fair- 
mount Park. The Battalion paraded in full strength. 

On November 24th, Thanksgiving Da}', the Battalion assembled 
in dress uniform and accompanied by the Metropolitan Band, they 
paraded down Broad Street and in front of the Union League, per- 
formed the ceremony of evening parade. They then marched down 
Chestnut Street to 5th, to Market, to Broad, to the Armory. All 
along the route they were greeted with applause. 

On February 6th. 1888, occurred the first of a series of balls 
given by the Battalion at the Academy of Music. The building 
was decorated with tropical plants and the balconies with bunting 
and National colors. Invited guests from all parts of the country 
were present. Precisely at 10 o'clock the curtain rose, showing the 
Adjutant and Sergeant ^lajor in position for Battalion formation. 
A Battalion drill followed, ending with dress parade. After the 
parade, dancing began, and at 12 o'clock the grand Military ]\Iarch 
was formed, led by Gen. Phil Sheridan, Major Chew, Governor 
Biggs, of Delaware, and Governor Beaver, of Pennsylvania, follow- 
ed by Officers of the Army and Navy ; Officers of the National 
Guards of New York, ]\Iassachusetts, New Jersey, Delaware, and 
Pennsylvania. This was the last public appearance of General 
Sheridan, for his illness and death occurred shortlj^ after. 

On May 11th, the regular spring inspection was held at the Ar- 
mory by Brigade Inspector Major Wetherill. the Battalion was 
present in its full strength. 

On the afternoon of May 25th, the Battalion celebrated its 75th 
Anniversary (the 26th occurring on Saturday, objection was 
raised to holding the celebration on that day). Accordingly 
the Battalion assembled in dress uniform with their white duck 
pants cleaned and pressed for the occasion, but Jupiter Pluvius 
had no mercy on the Fencibles, a storm broke and this necessitated 
a postponement of the parade until June the 9th. On that after- 
noon the Battalion marched down Broad Street to Chestnut, to 5th, 
to Market, to Broad, to the Union League, where they were re- 
viewed by General Snowden and Staff and a number of Officers of 
the National Guard. The review was followed by a dress parade. 

On Memorial Day the Officers of the Battalion went to Woodland 
Cemetery and decorated the grave of their late Commander, John 
W. Ryan. 

On July 21st, the Battalion assembled at the Armoiy in heavy 



312 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1888 

marching order for an 8 day tour of camp duty with the 1st Bri- 
gade, at Norristown, Pennsylvania. The camp was pleasantly situ- 
ated, but somewhat overcrowded. On the 28th, the Brigade broke 
camp. While in camp the death of Captain Robert Vaux, A. D. C, 
on the 1st Brigade Staff, was announced. He was a bright and in- 
telligent young officer, and much respected by the entire Brigade. 

At a meeting of the Board of Officers on September 19th, the 
scarlet coat, which has attracted so much attention in recent years, 
was adopted and the contract awarded to Samuel Wanamaker. 

On February 4th, 1889, occurred the second reception at the 
Academy of Music. The Battalion appeared for the first time in 
their new scarlet coats. The reception opened with a Battalion 
drill, which was witnessed by Officers of the Army and Navy and 
many visiting guardsmen. 

On March 3rd, the Battalion assembled at the Armory in heavy 
marching order, to proceed to Washington with the Division, to 
take part in the inaugural ceremonies of President-elect Benjamin 
Harrison. Arriving at Washington at 4 P. M. they marched to the 
National Hotel, where quarters had been engaged. They were then 
dismissed until the following morning. During the evening the 
officers entertained a number of visitors at their quarters. On the 
morning of the 4th, the Battalion took part in the inaugural parade 
with the Division N. G. P., which made an excellent appearance in 
their service uniforms. Late in the afternoon it was found impos- 
sible to get a train from the depot and the troops had to march 
to a station several miles from Washington. On their arrival 
they found no cars and were compelled to wait for some time. 
The weather had become very cold and windy and much suffering 
followed, owing to the lack of shelter. Late at night a few cars 
arrived, which were quickly captured by the Feneibles, but no 
start was made until shortly before daylight. Other troops had no 
chance to get away and they proceeded to build camp-fires, around 
which they remained for the night. The Feneibles arrived in Phil- 
adelphia at noon the next day, tired and hungry, being twenty-four 
hours without food or drink. 

On April 29th, the Battalion assembled in heavy marching order 
to proceed with the 1st Brigade to New York City to take part in 
the Centennial Inauguration of George Washington as President. 
The Battalion marched to 9th and Green Streets, and at 9.50 
o'clock P. M., entrained, arriving in New York City after mid- 



1889 JOHNSTOWN FLOOD— CAMP AT BRISTOL 31:^ 

night. They then boarded an elevated train to a point near the 7th 
Regiment Armory, where they were to be quartered. They were 
then invited to partake of sandwiches and coffee that had been 
provided by the officers of the 7th Regt. N. G. N. Y. Two other 
Regiments were quartered in the same Armory. Early next morn- 
ing the Battalion was formed and marched to the elevated road, 
where they entrained for Battery Park; at that point the 1st 
Brigade N. G. P. was formed. After a long and very tiresome 
march the Fencibles returned to the 7th Regiment Armory. Later 
in the evening they left for home, arriving in Philadelphia at one 
o'clock the following morning. 

The 76th Anniversary falling on Sunday, May 26th, the Bat- 
talion decided to parade on Saturday, the 25th. Assembling in full 
dress uniform, accompanied by the Metropolitan Band and Drum 
Corps, they made a street parade down Broad Street, to Chestnut, to 
5th, to Market, to Broad, to the Armory. In the evening the offi- 
cers assembled at dinner at a cafe on Walnut Street below 9th. On 
the 30th, they went to Woodland Cemetery in the morning, to dec- 
orate the grave of the late Maj. John W. Ryan. 

On May the 31st occurred the disastrous flood at JohnstoAvn, 
Penna., caused by the breaking of the South Fork dam in the Cone- 
maugh Valley, about 12 miles from the town. The flood swept 
houses, churches, railroads and bridges before it. Everything in 
its path was swept away, causing the loss of 2,209 lives. The State 
authorities took charge of the situation in order to relieve the suf- 
ferers from this calamity. Contributions were called for, and the 
Governor promptly called for volunteers from the National Guard 
to receive and distribute contributions and to prevent lawlessness. 
Lieutenant Cooper and Sergt. John Packer were detailed to rep- 
resent the Fencibles. They reported promptly and served several 
weeks in the arduous duty assigned them. 

On August 3rd, the Battalion assembled in heavy marching order 
in the morning, for an 8 day tour of camp duty. This being the 
year for Regimental Camps, the site selected was just outside the 
borough of Bristol. A detail was sent two days in advance to 
erect the canvas. The drill grounds were level and particular at- 
tention was given to police duty, and the cleanliness of the camp 
was noticeable to all who had the good fortime to visit the Com- 
mand. There were many fields suitable for skirmish drills; good 
bathing was close at hand, in fact, this site had every advantage to 



314 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1889 

make it a model camp. On the 8th, the Governor and his Staff, 
Generals Snowden and Dechert and their Staffs, made an official 
visit. The Battalion was inspected by the Adjt. Gen., W. W. 
Greenland, and many favorable comments were made on the neat- 
ness of the camp. The Battalion on this tour of duty, was accom- 
panied by the Metropolitan Band and Drum Corps, which enliv- 
ened the camp each day and evening with excellent music. The 
Battalion broke camp on the evening of the 10th. 

On October 17th, the Battalion received the sad news of the 
death of the Division Commander, Maj. Gen. John F. Hartranft. 
His unexpected death cast a gloom over the entire guard of the 
State, where his loss was deeply regretted. He was the promoter 
and organizer of the then efficient National Guard of Pennsylvania, 
Through his exertions the Guard had gained a reputation for prac- 
tical efficiency second to none in the covmtry. He was beloved by 
the entire command, being a brave and gallant soldier, having 
served his country on many hard fought battlefields. He was a 
kind and generous friend of the Fencibles, who were much indebted 
to him for his advice and assistance in the formation of the Bat- 
talion, and his memory will ever be cherished by them. The offi- 
cers of the Fencibles attended his funeral in a body. 

During the month of October the Battalion assembled in dress 
uniform, overcoat and shakos, for the purpose of visiting New York 
City, to give an exhibition drill in the Armory of the 7th Regiment. 
On arriving at 4 o'clock they were received by a Battalion of the 
Seventh, under the command of Major Kipp, and escorted to the 
City Hall, where they were reviewed by the Mayor. They were 
then escorted to their quarters at the Grand Central Hotel. A 
number of the members of the Old Guard, of New York, paid their 
respects and extended the courtesy of their Armory. In the even- 
ing the Battalion formed in the corridor of the hotel, and escorted 
by the quartermaster of the Seventh, they marched to the elevated, 
and entrained for a point near the 7th Regiment Armory. On the 
arrival at the Armory a brilliant sight awaited them, a select audi- 
ence of 3,000 persons was assembled to witness the drill. The 
Battalion was reviewed by Colonel Appleton, of the Seventh, and 
his Staff. The drill followed the review and it seemed as though 
the men and officers were inspired on that occasion. Battalion 
movements, the manual, loading and firing by Battalion, file firing; 
firing, kneeling and lying down ; all were executed with precision 



1889 RECEPTION— CAMP AT MT. GRETNA 315 

and called forth much applause. The exhibition was concluded 
with a dress parade. The following day the members were enter- 
tained at the Old Guard Armory, and by the members of the Sev- 
enth. They left for home early in the evening. 

On December 4th, the death of Lieut. William Rodgers, oi Com- 
pany B, was announced. His last parade was with the Battalion in 
New York City. The Battalion attended his funeral on the 8th, 
and the usual military ceremonies were performed at the grave. 

On February 10th, 1890, the third reception was held at the 
Academy of Music, and like the former, was a brilliant affair. The 
attendance was large and many guests were present from the Army. 
Navy and National Guard of the several States. One of the fea- 
tures of the evening was a drill by the 2nd Battery, National Guard 
of New York, under the command of Capt. David Wilson. The 
movements were well executed and the drill long remembered by 
those who witnessed it. Another feature was the Military ]\Iarch, 
led by the Governor of New Jersey and the Governor of Delaware, 
followed by their respective Staffs and many military officers. On 
the following day the Fencibles held open house in honor of their 
guests. The Batter}^ left for New York in the afternoon. 

On Sunday, May 25th, the Battalion in full uniform attended 
divine service at St. Stephen's Church, 10th below Market Street. 
where an eloquent Anniversars^ sermon was delivered by Chaplain 
H, A. F. Hoyt. On the afternoon of the 26th, the 77th Anniversary 
was celebrated by a street parade in dress uniform and a dress 
parade in front of the Union League. 

On July 19th. the Battalion left the City in heavy marching order 
for an 8 day tour of camp duty at Mt. Gretna, Pa., with the Divi- 
sion, under the command of Brig. Gen. Snowden. At this camp 
there were a number of United States troops — Infantry. Artillery 
and Cavalry, sent to take part in the camp. The camp was called 
Camp Ilartranft, in honor of the deceased Major General. On the 
23rd, tlie Division was reviewed by the President of the United 
States, several members of his Cabinet, Major General Schoffield. 
U. S. A., and thousands of visitors. Mt. Gretna is on a branch road, 
and the facilities for transporting the troops Avere none of the best, 
and therefore much delay was occasioned in the departure, after 
breaking camp. 

On October 7th, the Ancient and Honorable Artillery of Boston, 
arrived in Philadelphia, to celebrate their Annual Field Day 



316 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1890 

They were received and escorted to their quarters at the Continen- 
tal Hotel, by a provisional Battalion of the 2nd Regiment, com- 
manded by Captain Jacobus. In the afternoon they were enter- 
tained at the Fencibles Armory, where open house was kept and a 
very pleasant afternoon spent. In the evening "The Ancients" 
gave their Annual Banquet, and a number of Fencible officers were 
present, Major Chew responding for the Fencibles. The visitors 
left the City on the 8th. 

On October 15th, a committee of officers of the Fencibles repaired 
to the Pennsylvania Railroad Depot to receive and escort to their 
quarters the Worcester Continentals. On their arrival they were 
taken to the office of the Mayor, in whose absence they were wel- 
comed by Gen, Louis Wagner. They were then escorted to the 
Continental Hotel. In the afternoon the Battalion in full dress 
imiform marched to the City Hall plaza, where they were joined 
by the "Continentals." The line of march was then taken up, 
Broad Street to Chestnut, to Fifth, to Market, to Broad, to the 
Armory. This was a parade seldom witnessed in our City. The 
Fencibles appearing in the scarlet coat, which is a counterpart of 
the 18th century British Troops, while the "Continentals" ap- 
peared in the historic Revolutionary uniform. A reception followed 
the arrival at the Armory. On the 16th, the "Continentals" were 
taken to the brewery of Mr. Engle, where they were splendidly en- 
tertained, after which they were driven through the Park, stopping 
at Belmont Mansion for refreshments. In the evening they were 
taken to the theatre and on the morning of the 17th, they departed 
for home. 

In the beginning of the year 1891, the Commanding Officer de- 
termined to test the efficiency and ability of the Command to re- 
spond to orders on short notice, and the effectiveness of their sys- 
tem in notifying the men. The Battalion had previously adopted 
the red arrow as a signal, and if it appeared on a notice, they 
were to report at once. On the morning of January 14th, an order 
was issued for the several Companies of the Command to report 
in heavy marching order at 8 P. M. This order, with the red arrow 
printed across the face, was sent to each officer and man, either to 
his residence or place of business. Not a single officer or man ex- 
cept the Major and his Staff knew why this call was made, yet the 
response was almost unanimous; out of 236 officers and men, 231 
reported for duty. The Command left the Armory and made a 



1891 CALL FOR DUTY— ANNUAL BALL :{]7 

short parade, and on their return they received the tlianks of the 
Commanding Officer for their promptness. General Snowden was 
present and commended the Battalion for the prompt manner in 
which they responded to the call for duty. It is needless to say 
that this order created much excitement. The galleries of the 
Armory were packed with ladies and relatives of meml)ers of the 
Command. They were all agreeably disappointed when they later 
learned that there was no trouble in sight for the Fencibles. 
A newspaper of the day said : 

An event in the annals of the National Guard of Pennsylvania 
was the sudden assembling of the State Fencibles Battalion in 
heavy marching order last evening. The calling together of the 
men, was for the purpose of testing the system, in vogue, on the 
Battalions for emergencies, and the response was of such a char- 
acter as to thoroughly delight Major Chew, the Commandant, and 
to win words of praise from Major General Snowden, who was, the 
day before, notified that a call would be issued, and who was 
present when the soldiers returned to the Armory after a short 
parade. 

Beside the Major General, none but the company Commanders 
were aware that any such a thing as a sudden assemblage was 
contemplated. It was just 12 o'clock yesterday when this order 
was promulgated : 

I. The several companies of this command will assemble at the 
Armory, in State uniform (heavy marching order), this Wed- 
nesday evening, January 14th, at 7 : 30 o'clock. 

II. The field music will report to the Adjutant at 7: lo o'clock. 

By order of Major Chew. 

J. Frank Eedfearn, 
Adjutaiit. 

On February 2nd. the Fourth Annual Ball took place at the 
Academy of Music. This was largely attended by many invited 
guests from the Army and Navy, and distinguished citizens. The 
following day the Armory was open for the entertainment of the 
Fencibles' guests. 

The Battalion paraded on May 26th, in full dress uniform, in 
honor of the 78th Anniversary, and made their usual fine appear- 
ance. On the 30th, the officers decorated the grave of the late ]\Iaj. 
John W. Ryan, at Woodland Cemetery. 

On June 6th, the Battalion assembled to participate in the dedi- 
cation of the Monument erected by the National Guard of Pennsyl- 
vania to the memory of their beloved Commander, Gen. John F. 



318 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1891 

Hartranft, in the cemetery at Norristown. The entire 1st Brigade 
and a Provisional Regiment from the 2nd and 3rd Brigades paraded 
on that occasion. Some of the Companies were quartered in the 
Fencibles Armory, and were entertained by them during their sliort 
stay in this City. 

The Battalion reported on July 18th, prepared to go into camp 
with the 1st Brigade at Devon, about 16 miles from the City, on the 
line of the Pennsylvania Railroad. The surrounding country was 
beautiful, but the site of the camp was on low ground, with clay 
soil and unfortunately there was much rain during the encamp- 
ment. This caused some parts of the camp to become very uncom- 
fortable and the supply of wood being very short, rail fences soon 
disappeared in that neighborhood. Though the fences disappeared, 
like the ghost of "Banquo" the bills turned up at the Armory. 
Yet with the muddy experience they all gained, it was very clear 
to the officers in command that Devon was not a proper site for a 
military camp. The Battalion returned on the morning of the 
25th. 

At the meeting of the Board of Officers November 10th, ^Ma.jor 
Chew announced that his commission would expire on the 18th inst., 
owing to his business requirements and declining health he had 
decided to retire from active duty. 

On November 24th, the officers assembled to elect a successor to 
Major Chew. Capt. William A. Witherup, Company A. was unani- 
mously elected. He had been a member of the Battalion a number 
of years, and was a Veteran of the Civil War, a thorough tactician 
and a kind-hearted gentleman, and was held in high esteem by both 
officers and men of the Battalion. 

On New Year's Day, 1892, Company A, assembled with several 
invited guests and took the train for Pottstown, where they were 
to be the guests of Company A, 6th Regiment, N. G. P. After a 
short parade through the town they were taken to the Opera House, 
where a banquet was served. After doing full justice to the many 
good things set before them, speeches were made by citizens of 
Pottstown. Major Witherup, Captain Packer, Adjutant Redfearn, 
and Surgeon Fitzpatrick also responded to toasts. In the evening 
a grand reception was held and on the following morning they were 
entertained on a short tour of sight seeing, and in the afternoon left 
for the City. 

On February 7th, announcement of the death of Gen. William 



1«92 MEMOEIAL DAY— AXXIVEESARV 



•no 



McClellan, Adjt. Gen. N. G. P, was made. He was buried witli 
Military^ Honors on the 10th, on tliat day Hags were displayed at 
half staff as a mark of respect. 

The following notice was posted by the Memorial Day Committee: 

A meeting of the Memorial Day Committee was held on Wednos- 
day evening last with Captain Packer in the chair. A regula- 
tion style of decoration was adopted and is to be a green wreath 
with the letters S. F. in red immortelles in the centre. The com- 
mittee was also instructed to ascertain where the dead members 
lay in each cemetery. The Captain has issued the following 
earnest appeal to the members of the Battalion : 

The attention of the members of the Battalion is invited to the 
near approach of Memorial Day, when the comrades of the Grand 
Army assemble, to do honor to the memory of those who, in the 
hour of trial, stood by our Country's Flag and preserved its honor, 
and who have answered their last roll call. Let us emulate the 
example, by remembering the many good and worthy fellows, who 
have carried their muskets in our ranks, and with whom we have 
passed so many pleasant hours; whose smiles will greet us no 
more, and whose voices will never be heard again; for taps have 
sounded, and they sleep forever. Let their memory be venerated 
and kept green in the heart of every Fencible, and make it a labor 
of love to honor and decorate their graves, and remember "Auld 
Lang Syne." The co-operation and assistance of every member 
of the Battalion is earnestly solicited, to insure its success. Any 
information of the cemetery and location where lies a member, if 
reported to the committee or the superintendent of the Armory, 
will be promptly recorded. 

Edward E. Packer, 
Chairman. 
The Item said on May 29th : 

The seventy-ninth annual anniversary of the Battalion was cele- 
brated on Thursday afternoon by a street parade. As an unusual 
event for the Battalion, the weather was bright and clear, although 
as the hour of six rolled around the heavy black clouds began to 
gather in the western horizon, and the Battalion had only safely 
reached their quarters when the storm broke. 

The Battalion made a handsome appearance and were frequently 
applauded for the fine marching in the new regulation drill. The 
Battalion paraded nearly 230 men, and with the band numbered 
260. An incident happened during the course of the parade, 
which The Item feels in duty bound to mention. Our military 
correspondent had the pleasure of reviewing the parade from the 
window of the establishment of Ex-Major W. Wes Chew. The 
event is one that the reporter will long remember. 



320 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1892 

As the Battalion put in its appearance the band ceased play- 
ing until it reached the front of the Major's place of business, 
when it burst forth with that beautiful march, ' ' Should Old Ac- 
quaintance be Forgot ? ' ' and as the Battalion passed they paid a 
marching salute. The sight was affecting and the tears appeared 
in the Major's eyes as he viewed his old Command marching by. 

The 79th Anniversary was celebrated on May 26th. On the 29th 
they attended divine service at church, 4th below "Walnut Streets, 
where the services were conducted by the Chaplain of the Battalion, 
Eev. H. A. F. Hoyt. 

July opened with serious trouble and anarchy reigning at the 
iron works at Homestead, near Pittsburgh, Penna. Riot and blood- 
shed followed, and the Commander-in-chief ordered the entire Na- 
tional Guard to report for active duty. Orders were received from 
Brigade Commander, Gen. Robert Dechert, on the morning of 
July 11th. to prepare to proceed to Mt. Gretna, where the 1st 
Brigade was to mobilize. The members of the Command were 
notified at once, and at 10.30 A. M. the Battalion left the Armory 
and proceeded to 32nd and Market Streets, where they entrained, 
with only 26 absentees, for their destination. On the following 
morning the 26 absentees reported, the Fencibles having every man 
present for duty. 

The 1st Brigade was held in reserve at Mt. Gretna, while the 2nd 
and 3rd Brigades were sent to Homestead prepared to enforce law 
and order. The 1st Brigade, after waiting for twenty-four hours, 
decided to erect their canvas and go into camp, as there appeared to 
be no need for this Brigade at the seat of trouble. Orders were 
later received to prepare for the regular inspection, which ordinar- 
ily would have taken place on the 16th inst. The Brigade was in- 
spected by Governor Robert E. Pattison and Adjt. Gen. Greenland 
and Staff. They were also accompanied by Col. William Volkmar, 
U. S. A., an ex-member of the Fencibles. 

As the riots had been quelled by the 2nd and 3rd Brigades, and 
the services of the 1st Brigade not being needed, after 9 days at Mt. 
Gretna, they were ordered to break camp and return to the City. 

This was the year for Regimental Camps, and all organizations 
of the 1st Brigade had completed their arrangements ; the Fencibles 
had intended to camp at Pottstown. The ground had been staked 
out and the wood and lumber for fuel and mess tables, etc., de- 



1892 PKAISE FOR NATIONAL GUARD 321 

livered. The rescinding of the camp order was a great disappoint- 
ment to the members of the Fencibles. 

Several letters written by prominent men regarding the sol- 
diers. The Guard of this State admitted to be the finest in the 
world. 

That Pennsylvania's National Guard has made a world's known 
record for itself is established without a doubt, and even our sister 
State, New York, is now willing to acknowledge that the Keystone 
State owns a little army of its own. Now that the strike is about 
over and most of the citizen soldiers have returned to their homes 
they can look back with pride on the wonderful achievement they 
accomplished. 

A record that will go down in the world 's history. A matter 
which should ever make the humble private in the ranks hold his 
head with pride, when he says he is a member of the Guard. 
Since the memorable morning of the eleventh of July, praise for 
the Guard has been sounded all over the world. Army officers 
have opened their eyes M'ide with astonishment at the wonder- 
ful feat performed by the play soldiers, and the orders and the 
assembling of the entire Guard inside of twelve hours was truly 
wonderful. In the First Brigade the orders were not received until 
midnight, but by four o 'clock in the morning a sufficient number 
of men had reported in edch command to make a good regiment, 
and by eight o 'clock more than enough men had reported to use up 
every set of equipment that could be had. In the country regi- 
ments, where the men live as high as ten miles away from the 
Armories, the members were almost as prompt. Read what the 
Guardsmen, of Connecticut, and the New York papers say of our 
National Guard: 

Pennsylvania, — well may this State be proud of its National 
Guard. When that defamer of the State military system of this 
country, the New York Herald, remarks that "the spectacle pre- 
sented by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania yesterday was one 
which no other nation on the globe can parallel, and one of which 
every American citizen has just reason to feel proud," then must 
the work of the N. G. P. be apparent to all. 

The following appears in the New York Tribune: 

July 16. — The subject of the prompt and successful mobilization 
at and near Homestead, of 90 per cent, of the 8,947 officers and 
men composing the National Guard of the State of Pennsylvania, 
full and efficiently equipped for active service, within thirty- 
three hours after receipt of orders from Governor Pattison to 
move, has excited the interest and admiration of the Army, Navy 
and Marine Corps on duty in this City. The opinion prevails 
21 

\ 



322 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1892 

among those officers that as a remarkable iUustration of fidelity 
and celerity in obedience and movements in the execution of mil- 
itary commands, the mobilization is unparalleled in the history of 
the world, excepting with regular forces habitually in readiness for 
distant service. 

Officers of the regular service do not content themselves with 
this general reference to the excellence of the Pennsylvania troops 
as recently demonstrated by their manner and method, but they 
refer to the fact that the mobilization was accomplished under 
trying circumstances, with hasty, improvised means, and by a class 
of men whose secondary, not primary, occupation is that of sol- 
diers, and in their allusion to the promptness in obedience and 
movement of the State's citizen soldiery, which, actuated by no 
desire for excitement or glory, but really deprecated by those af- 
fected, and who left their peaceful business at home, for any and 
all stern realities of active service in a veteran-like manner, these 
officers speak in terms of the highest admiration of this last and 
best evidence of the military spirit and force so essential to the 
preservation of the law and order within the United States, as well 
as the defense of the country in case of foreign attack. Aside 
from their feelings of professional respect and pride at the suc- 
cessful movement upon Homestead — which feelings are, as a prom- 
inent officer of the Marine Corps expressed it to-day, ' ' due to the 
magnificent zeal and fidelity shown by the troops" — officers of 
the regular service here, regard the mobilization of the Guard as a 
matter of vast practical importance as a valuable object lesson 
not only to Pennsylvania, but to every State having or not having 
an organized military force, because the circumstance is bringing 
strongly before the people the necessity of maintaining a proper 
and efficient force for emergencies having the same causes and 
conditions as the one which is so prominently before them. 

The New York Herald said : 

At 8 'clock on Monday morning the headquarters of the First 
Brigade in Philadelphia, was thronged with men, and at half -past 
nine the First Regiment marched from its Armory with nearly its 
entire strength of men, fully equipped for the field. In less than 
twelve hours after the midnight call was sounded 1,900 of the 
2,000 men of the Brigade had left the City on fast trains for the 
named destination. 

Like promptness in responding and moving was shown in 
every quarter, and to-day will witness the entire National Guard 
of Pennsylvania — Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery — concentrated at 
the designated points, with all the equipment and efficiency of an 
army of veterans prepared for battle. 

The grandeur of the spectacle lies in the character of the men 
and the spirit that animates them. 



1892 ANNIVERSARY OF LANDING OF COLUMBUS 323 

They aro not regular soldiers enlisted in a standing army; not 
men whose lives are given to military tluties. They are represen- 
tative citizens, business and professional men, employers and em- 
ployees, clerks, and workingmen. They are actuated by no de- 
sire for excitement and glory; they have no feeling of hostility 
to those against whom they move; they deprecate the call to arms. 
They respond through loyalty to the Government and a liigh sense 
of the duties of citizenship. 

Read these significant words of a mill-working nienihcr of the 
Fourteenth Regiment in Pittsburgh: "It'll be a hard thing for 
me to shoot Into a crowd of men who are bound to me by all the 
ties of human interest and friendship, but when I have my uniform 
on and the command of ' Fire, ' is given, I will shoot, for when I 
entered the militia I took the oath of allegiance to the State of 
Pennsylvania, and swore to protect its Constitution and govern- 
ment at all hazards." This is a grand sentiment, and voices the 
spirit that animates all. It is a spirit of patriotism that recognizes 
loyalty to the government and obedience to the public authority as 
the highest duty, of American citizenship. 

What was done in Pennsylvania in a few hours in defense of 
law and order in one county can be done in forty-four States in 
defence of the Nation if menaced by foreign invasion. It shows 
no lack of military force in a country which maintains the small- 
est standing army in the wo.rld. 

October 11th, the Battalion assembled in the evening prepared to 
proceed to New York with the 1st Brigade, to take part in the 
400th Anniversary of the landing of Columbus. Arriving in New 
York at midnight they took an elevated train for the 22nd Regiment 
Armory, where the Fencibles were to be quartered. On the morn- 
ing of the 12th, they proceeded to Wall Street, where they joined 
the 1st Brigade, and participated in the great street parade. After 
the parade was dismissed they returned to the Armory and were 
entertained by the City authorities. Early in the evening they 
crossed the ferry to Jersey City and entrained for Philadelphia. 

The Commander of the Old Guard of New York, ]\Iajor George 
W. McLean, was buried on February 14th, 1893, Capt. E. E. Packer 
was present representing the Fencibles. 

The Battalion assembled on March 3rd, in heavy marching order, 
to participate with the Division N. G. P. in the inaugural ceremon- 
ies of President-elect Grover Cleveland. Leaving the Armory at 3 
o'clock under the command of Capt. Thurber T. Brazer, they 
marched down Broad Street to Washington Avenue, where they en- 
trained for Washington, arriving at 8.30 P. M. On the arrival they 



324 <^NE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FEISICIBLES 1893 

proceeded to the Post Office, where they shared the quarters with 
the 10th Regiment N. G. P., commanded by Colonel Hawkins. The 
weather set in with rain and snow and was very disagreeable. The 
Fencibles, on these occasions, were always given as much liberty as 
possible ; their deportment had always reflected credit on the 
Battalion, and they were always present when required for duty. 
However, shortly after midnight, some of the stragglers of the 10th, 
on entering their quarters, raised considerable disturbance ; some 
very uncomplimentary remarks were made, and somebody threat- 
ened to "throw the Fencibles Battalion out the windows." In a 
moment the Fencibles Battalion was on its feet. Some of the offi- 
cers who were sleeping in the room above, appeared, and thus 
serious trouble was averted. During the balance of the night peace 
reigned supreme. On the morning of the 4th, at 10 o'clock the 
Fencibles took their place in line. It had been raining and snowing 
during the night, and the morning was cold and windy. Notwith- 
standing this, the troops were kept standing in position for nearly 
four hours before the order to march was given. During this wait 
many ludicrous scenes were witnessed by those present in the en- 
deavors of some of the men who had become thoroughly chilled, to 
keep warm. After the parade the Fencibles returned to their quar- 
ters and in the evening left for home, arriving the following morn- 
ing. 

On April 24th, the Battalion paraded with the 1st Brigade N. G. 
P., escorting the Liberty Bell to 32nd and Market Streets, from 
where it was to be shipped to Chicago and placed on exhibition in 
the Pennsylvania Building at the "World's Fair. 

The 80th Anniversary of the Battalion was celebrated on May 
26th by a moonlight parade. Proceeding up Broad Street to Dia- 
mond, to 16th, to Columbia Avenue, to Broad, to the Armory. This 
was the first time the Fencibles attempted to hold their Anniver- 
sary parade in the evening, and while the Battalion turned out 
with ranks full and made an excellent appearance, the lights on the 
streets were too poor for them to be seen to the best advantage, and 
every one was of the same opinion that daylight is the time to see, 
and be seen. On the 30th, the Annual Ceremony of decorating the 
grave of Maj. John W. Ryan was performed by the officers of the 
Battalion at Woodland Cemetery. 

An election was ordered to be held on the evening of June 14th, 
at the Armory, for the election of a Major to fill the vacancy 




MAJOR WILLIAM A. WlTHEKri' 



1893 CAMP JAMES PAGE 325 

caused by the resignation of Maj. AVilliam Witherup, who had re- 
tired on account of business engagements. He was a faithful of- 
ficer and an agreeable companion. A man of strict integrity and 
one who had served faithfully through all the different grades imtil 
he reached that of Commander. He, for many years was the Treas- 
urer, and the financial affairs of the Battalion were always in ex- 
cellent condition. On retiring he was elected an Honorary member. 
Captain Thurber T. Brazer, who had so successfully commanded 
the "Ponies," Company D, was unanimously elected Major. 

The Battalion paraded on July 4th at Philadelphia with the 1st 
Brigade. After the parade Company A, of the Pencibles, enter- 
tained Company A, of the 6th Regt. N. G. P. of Pottstown, com- 
manded by Capt. William Schuyler. 

On the morning of July 15th, the Battalion assembled in heavy 
marching order for camp. This being Regimental Year, they 
were invited by Col. Edward DeV. Morrell to camp on his farm 
at Torresdale with the 8rd Regiment, Gray Invincibles, and the 
Keystone Battery. The field assigned was a beautiful tract of 
level ground, pleasantly situated, with good water and fine bathing 
facilities. A detail was sent in advance to erect the camp, which 
was dedicated "Camp JameS Page" in honor of one of the early 
Commanders. 

The Fencibles Avere much indebted to Colonel JMorrell for his 
generosity in furnishing, without cost, the lumber for flooring the 
tents and the running of pipes for water. 

On the 20th, inspection w^as held by the Governor and his Staff; 
IMajor General and his Staff, and the Brigadier General and Staff. 

A newspaper said : 

The quarters were pronounced in excellent condition. The re- 
view, inspection and muster were then gone through with. Gov- 
ernor Pattison and Adjutant General Greenland, who reviewed the 
Battalion, were pleased with the work of the men, and especially 
the salutes of the officers. 

At Camp Page the same ceremony was gone through with, and 
Major Brazer and his crack organization, the State Fencibles, 
came in for well deserved praise words of commendation from 
Governor Pattison and his Staff. 

Every tent was found to be in excellent condition and the arms 
of each man passed the critical eye of the inspectors without 
censure. The drill was one of the best ever given by the Fenci- 
bles, and evoked continuous rounds of applause. 



326 O^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1893 

Another paper said: 

It is doubtful if any other commanding officer on the first camp 
of that rank has scored such a success as Major Brazer has 
done. The State Fencibles, under his command, have done nobly, 
and the great respect in which Major Brazer is held by rank and 
file has received full proof in Camp Page. 

The discipline has never been better, and every man appears to 
take a special pride in doing his duty thoroughly. The reputa- 
tion of the Fencibles is well known, but all indications would 
point strongly to the fact that even the previous record will be 
surpassed under Major Brazer 's command. 

The Major is highly pleased with the camp and says ' ' That the 
only thing he objects to is the fact that just as every thing is 
moving along and the men settled down, the Battalion must re- 
turn, which it will probably do on Saturday afternoon. ' ' 

On October 19th. the Battalion visited Trenton, New Jersey, with 
the 1st Brigade N. G. P., to take part in the ceremony dedicating 
the Washington Monument on the field where the battle was fought 
over one hundred years before. The authorities of Trenton dis- 
tributed coffe and lunch to the visiting troops. After the parade, 
there was a review by the Governor of New Jersey. The Fencibles 
arrived in Philadelphia at midnight. On this occasion they mus- 
tered 273 officers and men. 

On November 6th, the Fencibles paraded with the 1st Brigade, 
escorting the Liberty Bell to the State House on its return from the 
World's Fair. On this occasion they were accompanied by "Jen- 
nings ' Band. ' ' 

A special meeting of the Board of Officers was called on the 
evening of February 14th, 1894, to take action on the death of Col. 
Aaron S. Taft, of the Worcester Continentals, an officer who was 
greatly admired by the Fencibles. Suitable resolutions were passed 
and copies were sent to his family and to the Continentals. 

On May 14th, the Battalion was officially informed of the death 
of Brigade Commander, Gen. Robert P. Dechert, who had passed 
away after a lingering illness. He was an excellent officer and a 
veteran of the Civil AVar, where he had made a brilliant record up-' 
holding the honor of his Coimtry's Flag. He had served in the 
National Guard for many years, and his last parade with tho 
Brigade was at Trenton, October 19th, 1893. Suitable resolutions 
were passed and the Battalion paraded with the Brigade at his 
fimeral, to Woodland Cemetery. 



1894 ANNIVERSARY— CAMP AT GETTYSBURG 327 

The 81st Anniversary of tlie Jiattalion, xMay 26th, was postponed 
on account of the death of Brig. Gen. Robert P. Dechert, until June 
16th, when they paraded in dress uniform, with full ranks, accom- 
panied by the ]\Ietropolitan Band and field music. 

A large assemblage of people gathered at West Fairmount Park, 
opposite Belmont Mansion, on the morning of July 4th, to witness 
the manoeuvres of the 1st Brigade. The Fencibles were assigned 
with the advance on the formation for battle. Blank cartridges 
were used and with the assistance of the Artillery, the Cavalry, and 
the Naval Reserves, the field soon assumed a warlike appearance. 
A review followed the Sham Battle, after which lunch was served. 

On the evening of August 10th, the Battalion assembled in heavy 
marching order for Division Encampment at Gettysburg, where 
they arrived on the morning of the 11th. The site of the Fencibles 
camp was on groimd occupied by the Rebel Army during the Civil 
"War. At this encampment a number of United States Troops were 
present and took part in the manoeuvres and reviews. Owing to the 
poor railroad facilities the Battalion was compelled to remain on the 
ground for about twenty-four hours after the tents were struck, 
with no rations. 

On October 24th, the Battalion paraded with the 1st Brigade at 
the unveiling of the Equestrian Statue of Gen. George McClellan, 
erected on the northwest corner of City Hall Plaza. The Brigade 
was reviewed by the Governor and the Mayor of the City of Phila- 
delphia. The entire 6th Regiment N. G. P., composed of Companies 
from outside of Philadelphia, were entertained by the Fencibles in 
the Arena at Broad and Cherry Streets, and the officers of the 
said Regiment were entertained in the Armory. 

On March the 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th. 1895. the several Com- 
panies of the Fencibles were inspected by the Brigade Inspector, 
Maj. Frank G. Sweeney. This inspection was very thorough, con- 
sisting of School of Soldier, School of Company, Extended Order, 
Guard Duty, etc. The Companies passed a very creditable in- 
spection. 

A newspaper, speaking of the Spring Inspection, said : 

Last evening closed one of the most successful inspections 
the Battalion State Fencibles ever passed, and they will get a 
high rating for their very efficient work in the Adjutant Gen- 
eral's report. 



328 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1895 

' ' From the beginning of the inspection until its close a most no- 
table fact observed was the handsome appearance of the men and 
their steadiness in line. As each rank was opened for a close 
inspection the firmness of the men was something remarkable, and 
an officer remarked that they looked like statues. 

' ' Captain Holmes, of Company D, and his command, were first 
to pass through the ordeal on Monday evening. 

' ' The company reported with full ranks and the drill which it 
put up was commended by all. The only apparent difficulty with 
any of the companies in drilling the extended order drill, is the 
want of room. ' ' 

On ]\Iarch 23rd, annoimceraent was made of the death of Adjt. 
Gen. "W. W. Greenland. Suitable resolutions were passed and the 
flag ordered at half staff on the day of his funeral. 

On iMay 26th, the Battalion paraded in celebration of the 82nd 
Anniversary, and on Sunday the 27th, accompanied by the Field 
Music, attended divine service at St. Paul's Church, where the 
Chaplain delivered the sermon. 

' ' The military organizations of this country stand for the same 
thing as the Church of God," declared Rev. H. A. F. Hoyt, to 
members of the State Fencibles Battalion in St. Paul's Protestant 
Episcopal Church yesterday afternoon. The Fencibles attended 
divine service in honor of the eighty-second anniversary of their 
organization, marching from the Armory on Broad Street, to the 
church, on Third Street below Walnut. In addition to the anni- 
versary sermon by Mr. Hoyt, who has been Chaplain of the Fen- 
cibles for nine years, there was a service of praise and song, a 
choir of fifty voices chanting psalms and singing hymns. 

' ' Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any 
people," was the text of the sermon. The preacher said he was 
often approached by good people who thought he made a mistake 
by being associated with the National Guard. "Such people," he 
said, ' ' were of the opinion that there should be no army for the 
settlement of State and National difficulties, but that all troubles 
should be left to the settlement of the ' Prince of Peace. ' But the 
records of the past and the prospects of the immediate future 
do not seem to tell us that happy day is within reach of our im- 
perfect humanity. When the National Guard stands, as it always 
stands, for the supremacy of the law, it stands for the condemna- 
tion and destruction of that which is evil, and for the maintenance 
of that which is good. ' ' 

Numerous illustrations of the truth of this statement were 
placed before the soldiers, the 82 years' record of the Fencibles 
were recounted as an evidence of it, and the present members 
were charged with the responsibility of keeping this record as 




From oil i)ainting — Studio I>. C. Humphries. 

MAJOR THURBER T. BRAZER. 



1895 CAMPS AT SANATOGA AND L1<:WIST0WN 309 

clean as they found it. They were advised that one of the best 
ways to do this was by their individual acts, and they were urged 
to keep in close touch with God, that they might merit His as- 
sistance. "The best soldiers in all times," he concluded, "have 
been those who served God most faithfully. ' ' 

On the 30th, the usual ceremony of decorating the grave of Major 
John W. Ryan was held at Woodland Cemetery. 

Independence Day, the Battalion took part with the 1st Brigade, 
in a review in West Fairmount Park, in front of Belmont Mansion. 

On July 20th, the Battalion reported for camp duty, and left the 
City with the 1st Brigade for Sanatoga, near Pottstown, where they 
remained until the 27th. 

The first parade for the year 1896 was on May 26th, on the occa- 
sion of the 83rd Anniversary of the Battalion, and on the 30th, the 
usual ceremony of decorating the grave of ]\la,j. John W. Ryan, was 
performed. 

On July 4th, the Battalion participated with the 1st Brigade in 
the celebration of Independence Day in West Fairmount Park. 
The Battalion on this occasion was imder the command of Captain 
Samuel P. Holmes, in the absence of ]\Iajor Brazer, who was tem- 
porarily out of the City. 

On July 16tli, the Battalion left the City and after a night's ride, 
arrived at Lewistown at 4.30 in the morning, where they were to 
remain for a tour of camp duty. The camp was located in a beau- 
tiful spot, surrounded by mountains, a short distance from the 
"Blue Juniata." A detachment of regular troops, composed of 
Artillery and Cavalry, participated with the Guard in this encamp- 
ment. The Division was manoeuvred by General Snowden, and re- 
viewed by the Governor. All the Regiments were inspected by the 
Adjutant General and a large number of Regular Army Officers. 
among whom was Major General Nelson ]\Iiles. Commanding the 
U. S. A. 

A newspaper said : 

The famous State Fencibles came next in order, and Major 
Brazer had 246 officers and men present, and six absentees to re- 
port to the inspectors. As of old, the Fencibles Battalion made a 
superb passage in review and their appearance and the excellent 
drill they put up was well deserving of the compliments bestowed 
upon the only independent Battalion in the State's service. 



330 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1896 

As indicative that the Pennsylvania Guard was progressively 
better, it is of interest to note that of its fifteen regimental organi- 
zations, eight had general averages of 90 or upwards. The gen- 
eral average of the Eighth was 92.73, the Fifteenth. 92.64, the 
Eighteenth, 91.89, the Fourth, 90.36. and the Third, 90.28. In 
the First Brigade the Second Regiment was but a shade off, with 
89.80, while the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry passed 
ahead with 94.75, as did the State Fencibles with 91.41. 

"For the first time (said IMajor General Snowden in his official 
report) in the history of the division there was room for field ex- 
ercises Brigades were in line of regiments, in columns of bat- 
talions, at a suitable distance. The drill consisted in formation 
in line, tM'o changes of front on the centre, right brigade forward 
march in line, and deploying into columns of companies, and oc- 
cupied less than two hours. Change of front to ninety degrees was 
made in less than twenty minutes, which, considering that not since 
the War of the Rebellion, and seldom then, had such a movement 
been executed, and that a very few of the officers had ever seen or 
taken part in the manoeuvre before, may be regarded by the division 
with some degree of satisfaction .... A protracted rain on Thursday 
night and Friday prevented a repetition of like exercises as well 
as other movements, such as marching in the enemy's country, the 
convoy of trains, etc., which will bo illustrated by the brigades in 
camp the coming year. ' ' 

On April 27th, the members of the several Companies of the Fen- 
cibles were granted permission to take part with the several Com- 
panies of the 1st Regiment, which was to form a part of a provi- 
sional Brigade detailed by the Governor to represent the State of 
Pennsylvania at the dedication ceremonies of the IMonument and 
Tomb of Gen. U. S. Grant at Riverside, New York City. 

A meeting of the Board of Officers was called to take action on the 
death of George W. Biddle, a son of the first Captain of the Fenci- 
bles, and a life member of the organization. The following resolu- 
ions were adopted: 

Whereas, God in His all-wise providence has removed from our 
midst, after a long and honorable career, Mr. George W. Biddle, 
a life member of this organization, and a son of the first Com- 
mander; and 

Whereas, For a great many years the State Fencibles have 
found him a generous and kind-hearted friend; therefore, b'e it 



1897 CAMP AT NESHAMINY FALLS 331 

Resolved, That in his death the Command has lost a true 
friend, and the city a useful and patriotic citizen. 

Resolved, That the sympathy of this Board be tendered to the 
family, and a copy of these resolutions be spread upon the min- 
utes. 

Thurber T. Brazer, President. 
Fred. G. Zeh, Secretary. 

On May loth, occurred the unveiling of the Washington INTonu- 
ment, erected b.y the Society of Cincinnati, an association orgjinized 
at the close of the Revolutionary War, composed of Officers of the 
American Arm,y and their descendants. On this occasion the entire 
National Guard was present, together with a large number of reg- 
ular troops, also the National Guard of New Jersey and Delaware. 
On this occasion the Fencibles, having a distinctive uniform, were 
permitted to wear it. 

The President of the United States, William McKinley, and a 
number of Federal officials were present, and reviewed the parade. 
The 1st Philadelphia City Cavalry served as an escort to the Pres- 
ident. The Girard College Cadets also paraded on this occasion. 
The monument was erected at the Green Street entrance of Fair- 
mount Park. A number of visiting troops were quartered at the 
Armory and were entertained by the Fencibles. 

Owing to the recent parade of the 15th inst., the 84th Anniver- 
sary street parade was dispensed with, and the Battalion on the 
23rd. in full uniform, attended services at the Church of the In- 
carnation at Broad and Jefferson Streets, where an eloquent sermon 
was delivered by Chaplahi H. A. F. Hoj^t. On the 30th, the annual 
pilgrimage of the Officers to Woodland Cemetery to decorate the 
grave of ^lajor John W. Ryan, took place. 

On July -Ith, the Battalion took part with the 1st Brigade in the 
Military manoeuvres in front of Belmont Mansion, West Fairmount 
Park. 

On July 10th, the Battalion assembled for a tour of camp duty 
with the 1st Brigade at Neshaminy Falls, Bucks County, where 
they remained until the 17th inst. During this tour of duty 
a pleasant incident took place, showing the interest taken by the 
members of the Fencibles in things pertaining to the standing of 
the Battalion in the National Guard. While in camp at Lewistown 
the previous summer, the members were impressed with the neces- 
sity of having an ambulance to properly perform duty in the field. 



332 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1897 

It was determined by the non-commissioned officers to have one for 
the next camp. A Non-commissioned Officers Association was 
formed and they went to work with a will to carry out their reso- 
lution. With the assistance of the members and their friends thej; 
succeeded in having an ambulance built of the latest improved pat- 
tern ; also secured a beautiful double set of harness, elegantly 
mounted, and presented the same to the Battalion at camp. The 
presentation was made by Sergt. Maj. James Stimmel, and was 
received on behalf of the Battalion by Major Thurber T. Brazer. 
The Press, in speaking of Camp Birney, said : 

The Battalion State Fencibles, Major Thurber T. Brazer, at 
Camp Birney, during the last week, certainly kept up its reputation 
for being one of the very best disciplined military organizations in 
the State, and the citizens of Philadelphia have good reason to feel 
proud that the officers and members of the Battalion are her 
sons. Never before, since its organization, did the Battalion make 
a better display, and during the inspection Major Brazer 's of- 
ficers and men were highly complimented by the many hundreds 
who had the pleasure of witnessing it. The marching was perfec- 
tion in reality. 

"The Board of Officers" having decided to reconstruct the front 
of the Armory by building a granite front with small windows pro- 
tected by iron grills, and also to make certain alterations in the in- 
terior, therefore, on the return from camp all drilling was dispensed 
with until further ordered. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

1898^1900. 

THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR — FENCIBLES IN CAMP — ON THE MARCH — 

CAMP AT MIDDLETOWN RECEPTION ON RETURN TO PHILADELPHIA 

FENCIBLES MUSTERED OUT OP SERVICE — REPORT OF MAJOR BRAZER — 
FENCIBLES ASSIGNED TO THE 6tH REG. N. G. P. — THE OLD GUARD RE- 
ORGANIZED — TROUBLE REGARDING POSSESSION OF ARMORY — AN AT- 
TEMPT TO OUST THE FENCIBLES — THE STATE FENCIBLES RE-ORGAN- 
IZED. 

The year 1898 proved an eventful year for the National Guard of 
the coimtry. It was ushered in with strained relations between 
our Government and Spain. The natives of the Island of Cuba 
had been struggling for freedom from the Spanish yoke for many 
years. The Government had vainly endeavored to procure from the 
Spanish authorities a more humane treatment of prisoners and 
non-combatants, but with little success. The crisis was reached on 
the evening of February 15th, when the United States Battleship 
"Maine" was bloAvn up while at anchor in the harbor of Havana. 
This act caused these hitherto smouldering flames of public dis- 
approval in the United States to burst forth into a wild fire of 
anger and excitement, and the voice of the American people called 
out in righteous indignation, demanding that Spain relinquish 
its sovereignty over the Island of Cuba. 

At half-past one o'clock on the mornng of April 19th, 1898. 
Congress, at "Washington, passed a series of resolutions which 
virtually ended the friendly relations between the United States 
and Spain. For upwards of a week a most exciting debate had been 
going on. and the scenes that preceded the outbreak of our great 
Civil War were re-enacted. Crowds of people thronged the galler- 
ies of both Houses of Congress for many days, and other crowds 
struggled in vain for admission. The most intense public interest 
was awakened throughout the country. 

On April 23rd, the President issued his proclamation calling for 
125,000 volunteers to serve "for two years, unless sooner dis- 

333 



334 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

charged," and on the 25th day of April an act of Congress was 
passed and approved declaring ' ' that a state of war existed between 
the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain, and had 
existed since the 21st day of April, 1898." 

On April 25th, the Governor of Pennsylvania, Hon. Daniel H. 
Hastings, caused an order to be issued directing the mobilization 
of the entire National Guard of the State at Mt. Gretna, in Leb- 
anon County, April 28th. The quoto required from the State of 
Pennsylvania was 10,800 men. 

Headquarters National Guard op Penn'a, 
Adjutant General's Office, 

Harrisburg, Pa., April 25, 1898. 
General Order, 
No. 7. 

I. The President of the United States, through the Secretary 
of War has this day called for ten thousand eight hundred troops 
from Pennsylvania to be organized into ten regiments of infantry 
of twelve companies each, minimum eighty-one, maximum one hun- 
dred and one, and four batteries of artillery, two hundred and 
four, officers and men each, to be recruited from the National 
Guard as far as possible. 

II. The Major General Commanding is directed to assemble the 
Division, National Guard of Pennsylvania, excepting naval force, 
at Mount Gretna, Lebanon county, Pa., on Thursday, April 28, 
1898. 

III. By instructions of Navy Department, John S. Muckle, com- 
manding naval force of Pennsylvania, is authorized to communi- 
cate direct with Navy Department, reporting fully all orders and 
movements to this office. 

IV. All officers using transportation orders for troops, horses, 
baggage or equipment, will in every case fill out statement on back 
of order, making same complete as possible and mark order 
' ' Special. ' ' Regulations governing use of transportation must 
be strictly complied with. 

V. The administration of the various departments will be under 
the supervision of the head of each deparment. 

VI. Field music of regiments will be restricted to two musicians 
from each company. 

VII. Baggage will be kept at the minimum consistent with the 
needs of the troops in camp. 

VIII. Surgeons of Commands, except Division and Brigade Sur- 
geons, will provide themselves with the necessary medical stores for 
use en route to camp. Full supply will be issued under super- 
vision of the Surgeon General. Surgeons purchasing supplies as 
directed will procure bills for same in duplicate, and approve and 



r > 
- '^ 
■ji — 

V. 

r- > 

n 2 




1898 SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR 335 

forward to Adjutant General's Office for payment. Surgical 
instruments and splints have been issued from the State Arsenal 
to regimental headquarters. 

IX. Officers making returns and reports of any description 
will make retained copy for future reference and record. 

X. Commissary Department will adhere to ration table of the 
United States Army. 

XI. Commanding officers will submit in camj) financial statement 
of Armory rent and annual allowance received since returns made 
in July, 1897; the statement will be accompanied by proper 
vouchers for expenditures made. 

By order of Daniel H. Hastings, 
Governor and Commander-in-Chief. 
Thomas J. Stewart, 
Adjutant General. 
Official : 

1-27-98. H. J. Crump, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 
To Commanding Officer, 
State Fencibles Batt. Inft'y. 

Headquarters 

State Fencibles Battalion 

First Brigade, N. G. P. 

Armory, Broad and Race Streets. 
Orders 
No. 3. 

Philadelphia, April 26th, 1898. 

I. In compliance with G. O. No. 7, C. S., Headquarters First Bri- 
gade, N. G. P., this command will assemble at the Armory, in 
State uniform, heavy marching order, (with leggings), on Thursday 
morning, 28th inst., at an hour to be hereafter designated, to camp 
at Mt. Gretna, Pa. 

II. Staff Officers will report mounted during the tour of duty. 

III. Campaign hats will be worn by the enlisted men; caps will 
be carried in knapsack. 

IV. Each man will provide himself with sufficient change of 
underclothing, a blue flannel shirt, white duck tro.users, soap, 
towel, comb, brush, clothes-brush, three pairs of white gloves and 
material for cleaning brasses. Shoes of State pattern will be worn. 

V. Field Music will report to the Adjutant on Thursday morn- 
ing, at an hour to be hereafter designated. 

VI. The Quartermaster will make such arrangements as are 
necessary to have at least two days' cooked rations issued. 

VII. Morning reports must be at these Headquarters not later 
than 7. A. M. each day. 



336 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

VIII. Company Commanders will take with them their books 
and papers, to enable them to deliver and forward such rolls, 
reports and returns, as may be called for. 

By order of Major Brazer. 
Charles F. Lumb, 
Adjutant. 

On the morning of the 28th, the Fencibles marched to the train 
in a downpour of rain and sleet. They arrived at Mt. Gretna at 
noon and detrained, the storm not having abated ; and it was late 
in the afternoon before a position was assigned them to put up 
their canvas. Night was coming on and therefore camp was hur- 
riedly made and it became necessary to reconstruct the same in the 
morning. The weather during the 22 days at Mt. Gretna was 
very wet and stormy, there being but four clear days. After the 
camp had been established arrangements were made for mustering 
in all guardsmen who desired to enter the service of the United 
States. 

An effort was made by Major Brazer to secure permission from 
the Governor to increase his command to a regiment; this he 
was informed, could not be allowed as it would increase the num- 
ber of men coming from the Fencibles and thus would exceed their 
quota. The Governor assured him however, in the event of a second 
call for troops, this permission, if possible, would be granted. The 
Governor then gave the Fencibles permission to select one of the 
eight company regiments to which they desired to be assigned. 
The 6th Regiment Infantry was selected and by the addition of 
the State Fencibles Batallion, of four companies, it had the dis- 
tinction of being the only twelve company regiment mustered 
into the United States from Pennsylvania. The members of the 
Fencibles failing to pass the surgeons examination and others 
who were sent home, organized Company I, of the Provisional 
Guard. 

On May 13th, the companies having been recruited to 77 men, 
they were mustered into the United States service and on the 
17th, the services of the Staff and Non-Commissioned Staff except 
the Chaplain and Surgeon, not being needed, were accordingly 
sent home. By direction of the Secretary of War, the several 
companies of the 6th Regiment were recruited to a total of 108 
so, that on the 8th of July, 1898, the total strength of the regiment 
was 1329. On the 19th of May, the regiment had left Mt. Gretna 



1898 SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR 



337 



for Falls Church, Virginia, and were brigaded with the 4th Mis- 
souri; 7th Illinois; forming the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, 2nd 
Army Corps, and here they settled down to camp routine. The 
Brigade was imder the command of Gen. John W. Schall. 

On the 26th, occurred the 86th Anniversary of the Fencibles 
and it was celebrated by the officers with a banquet in the mess 
tent. Much credit was due the Chaplain and Mrs. Hoyt and a few 
lady friends who decorated the table with greens and wild flowers 
gathered in the neighborhood. Speeches were made by General 
Schall, Major Brazer, Chaplain Hoyt. This was the fifth occa- 
sion when the Anniversarj- of the Fencibles had been celebrated in 
the field while they were in the service of the United States. Four 
times during tlie Civil War, while the Fencibles were in the service 
of the Army of the Potomac the Anniversary was celebrated, and 
rather a strange coincidence that the fifth celebration, as well as 
the four during the Civil War, was held on Virginia soil. A strik- 
ing contrast, however, was the elaborate table of ''1898" compared 
with tlie bean-soup fare of '61 to '65. 

On May 27th, the 2nd Army Corps was reviewed by General 
Graham U. S. A. and on the 28th, by the President of the United 
States, William McKinley. 

The monotony of camp was occasionally relieved by sending dif- 
ferent regiments for practice marches and outpost duty, which 
if they had been in a country not under cultivation, would have 
been very instructive as well as beneficial to both officers and men, 
in fitting them for a campaign of active service. Under the cir- 
cumstances they lost much of the advantage by being compelled 
to avoid the destruction of property in the vicinity of the marches ; 
thus, much of the instructive features were missed. While this 
tended to harden the men to fatigue, they were handicapped by 
being encamped in a section where water Avas scarce and could only 
be secured by sinking wells, which barely furnished enough for 
cooking and drinking. On returning from a dusty march they had 
no water to wash the dust and grime from their bodies. Think of 
it, from 30,000 to 40.000 men camped on a spot with such a meagre 
water supply. Such disposition of troops was more destructive to 
life, from disease, than active service in the field. 

The Fencibles were designated the First Battalion of the 6th 
Regiment, and on June 5th were detailed for outpost duty, return- 



338 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

ing on the evening of the 6th. Their time was mostly spent in 
drills and guard duty, with nothing to relieve the monotony of 
camp but occasional rumors of going to the front, an order that 
would have been hailed with delight. 

On June 20th, the Regiment left camp for a three-day march 
to Difficult Run, reaching there in the afternoon they bivouaced 
until the 22nd, when they returned, reaching camp in the evening. 

On July 2nd, the boys received one month's pay and many of 
them appealed to their officers for leave of absence over the 4th. 
Some were fortunate and left after receiving their pay. During 
the evening Lieutenant Colonel Shenton, who was in command, 
notified some of the captains, of his old command, that there 
would be no roll call until Monday night and they could enjoy 
the 4th without duty or held to strict camp routine. They notified 
their men who misinterpreted the instructions given them, and 
taking it that they were at liberty to go where they pleased, most 
of them started for a 48 hour trip home. Three or four hundred 
left at once and one entire company, officers included, passed 
through the camp in high spirits. Nearly half of the Regiment 
was on its way to Falls Church. None had passes and they were 
compelled to dodge the sentinels to get through the line, also 
the guards at General Graham's headquarters. They marched into 
Falls Church singing patriotic songs, much to the astonishment of 
the sleeping inhabitants, none were armed, but they made a 
great noise. When General Graham learned that the 6th Penn- 
sylvania had broken through the guard lines and were on their 
way home, he ordered a general alarm sounded and every regiment 
for miles around were under arms in their company streets. He 
ordered the 3rd U. S. Cavalry and the 8th Penna. Infantry, fully 
armed with ammunition to arrest the fugitives. By this time the 
men had arrived at Falls Church, and in a few minutes, to their 
surprise, they saw the approach of the Cavalry through the forest 
and they lost no time in dispersing, making their way toward 
"Washington. Over the hills and through the fields and in every 
conceivable place, could the fugitives be found and close behind 
tJhem, the Cavalrymen galloped and succeeded in capturing about 
300. Some were chased to the Potomac, where they succeeded in 
crossing in small boats. Those captured, were marched back to 



1898 SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR 339 

camp, most of those who succeeded in escaping, returned for roll 
call on ^Monday night. All who were captured were given police 
duty and many were fined; however, by the 6th, all had returned 
to camp. General Graham remarked "that the best disposition to 
make of this Regiment would bo, to either send them home or to 
the front." At headquarters Lieutenant Colonel Shenton was 
blamed for the affair, who, to avoid a court martial, promptly re- 
signed. He took this step and shouldered the blame. He was 
sacrificed by his own people on account of their unreasonable be- 
havior. 

On July 8th, the Regiment had another practice march to Dif- 
ficult Run and returned on the evening of the 9th. 

During their service at Camp Alger the officers held their meet- 
ings regularly, there was no special business done other than call- 
ing the roll and indulging in a social chat to keep alive the interest 
of the Battalion. 

On July 14th, Major Brazer's term of service in the National 
Guard expired and he was unanimously re-elected; while this was 
not recognized by State or Federal authorities it was by the Bat- 
talion as an endorsement of his long and faithful service. 

The Regiment had been in Camp Alger for nearly two months 
with no sign of getting to the front. The weather being very hot 
and water scarce caused the men to suffer for the want of bathing 
facilities to refresh them. The food issued was not suitable, nor 
were there sufficient quantities. The Government provided enough, 
but before it reached the soldier much of it had evaporated. All 
this was very discouraging to the men, who were anxious to act 
in the role of active duty, instead of being used as laborers in 
clearing the land for spectators, and of course much discontent- 
ment prevailed. It was at this time that the entire body of offi- 
cers of the Regiment went to the Colonel's quarters and politely 
requested him to make an effort to have the Regiment sent to 
the front or somewhere to make a record for itself, as it was the 
only full Regiment sent from Pennsylvania and was composed of 
splendid material which would have been a credit to the State, 
if given an opportunity. The reply was not very satisfactory, and 
they all returned to their quarters thinking of the maxim they 
had learned "that it was not good policy to ask, but a soldier's 
duty to wait for orders." They waited and finished their serv- 
ice with drills and dress parades where an enemy was unknown. 



340 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

and where the flying bullets never disturbed the beauty and serenity 
of their exercises. This was a great disappointment to them, 
having left situations and comfortable homes, to endure privations 
of the fields and to be compelled to return without even seeing 
a Spanish soldier. 

While the Regiment was stationed at Camp Alger an invoice of 
cartridge belts were sent from Washington, but were returned by 
the Colonel, he preferring the old style cartridge boxes. He also 
refused to sign a requisition for the new army rifle which would 
have been furnished the Regiment by the War Department through 
the solicitation of some of the officers of the Regiment, assisted by 
Senators from Pennsylvania. 

On August 3rd, the Brigade started on a march, their objective 
point being Thoroughfare Gap. They left Camp Alger in the 
morning and reached Burke's Station in the afternoon, a dis- 
tance of 12 miles, where they bivouaced. The weather set in stormy 
and they were only provided with shelter tents. On the morning 
of the 5th, they marched to Bull Run, a distance of 10 miles, reach- 
ing there in the afternoon. The weather continued stormy which 
made the roads very heavy, but the men were better satisfied in 
moving than lounging in camp. They were experiencing the novelty 
of floundering through Virginia mud and crossing swollen streams, 
over the same ground that the Army of the Potomac traversed in 
the Civil War, marching and fighting in what was then the ene- 
my's country. On the morning of the 7th, the line of march was 
taken up for Bristow, a distance of 10 miles, where they bivouaced 
for the night. On the morning of the 8th, they took up the 
march for Thoroughfare Gap. During the march a heavy storm 
was raging which made their movements very slow. They took 
shelter during the night under anything that came handy. While 
the Major and his Adjutant were hunting for quarters, they 
discovered a chicken house and groping around in the dark to 
find something with which to improvise a cot, discovered some- 
thing very much in the shape of a man curled up on the chicken 
roost, enjoying a nap, and no doubt dreaming of his comfort- 
able bed at home. Upon close examination they found him to 
be Chaplain H. A. F. Hoyt, who, not being able to find any other 
quarters, was roosting with the chickens for the night. The Chap- 
lain during the service, had endeared himself to both officers and 



1898 SPANISH- AMERICAN WAR 341 

men of the Regiment and he never tired in looking after the com- 
fort of the mon. sharing the hardships and privations which wore 
ph'ntifni. and always consoling the boys with that same kindly smile 
that all remember him in their trials and troubles. He was the right 
man, in the right place and will never be forgotten by the Fenci- 
bles. 

The Brigade reached the Gaj) on the 10th, and bivouaced on a 
ploughed field in a storm, whicli was anything l)ut pleasant. ITore 
they remained until the 25th, when they were sent by rail to 
Middletown, Pa., where a camp had been established. 

On September 7th, the Regiment was to be sent home and great 
preparations were being made by the City authorities of Philadel- 
phia to give them a royal welcome on their expected arrival at two 
o'clock in the afternoon, but strange as it may appear obstacles 
were thrown in the way to detain the Regiment. One was an at- 
tempt to detain the Commanding Officer, which did not succeed; 
the other was the compelling the Battalion commanders to draw 
lots which should be paid first by the Paymaster. Fortunately our 
Commander drew first prize and although two hours late they ar- 
rived in Philadelphia in good time and received an ovation. The 
Battalion was banqueted at Industrial Hall by the City authorities 
and were received by our patriotic Mayor, Charles P. Warwick, the 
soldiers' friend. 

The Battalion received a furlough for 30 days and on October 
11th, were mustered out of the United States service after serving 
nearly six months. 

A newspaper said : 

That the home-coming Philadelphia regiments are to be ac- 
corded a warm and enthusiastic reception upon their approaching 
return, was indicated by the spirit that pervaded the meeting of 
the Citizens' Reception Committee held just before noon today in 
the Mayor's office, who completed all the details for the reception 
of the State Fencibles, which will be the first command to get back 
to its home City. The State Fencibles, or to call it by its war-time 
appellation, the Third Battalion of the Sixth Regiment, is expected 
to come into Broad Street Station tomorrow morning, and that 
the sun-tanned boys in blue will be received by nearly half the 
City when they march from the cars, goes without saying. 

Those present at the meeting of the Reception Committee today 
were Gen. George R. Snowden, Gen. Edward Morrell, Gen. St.Clair 
A. Mulholland, Col. Sylvester Bonnaffon, Col. O. C. Bosbyshell, 



342 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

Capt. Robert P. Schellinger, President James L. Miles, of Select 
Council ; President Wencel Hartman, of Common Council ; Lewis 
S. Amonson, Select Councilman, E. W. Patton and Common Coun- 
cilmen George W. Edmonds and William Van Osten. The meeting 
was an executive one. 

Another paper said : 

The work preliminary to the mustering out of the State Fenci- 
bles began yesterday morning at the Armory, Broad Street above 
Eace, and till late in the afternoon the various rooms of the build- 
ing presented busy scenes. The work of physical examination of 
the men occupied the day, and was practically completed. Capt. 
Frederick Fuger, Fourth United States Artillery, who has per- 
sonal charge of the work, believes that the men will be paid off 
and formally mustered out before Wednesday. 

The work done yesterday by the examining surgeons indicates 
that the Fencibles are to go out of the service in excellent con- 
dition. The records will probably show that not more than two 
per cent, of the members incurred serious disability during service 
- — a fact which speaks well for the way the Company was handled 
by its officers. 

' ' Some of the men, ' ' he said, ' ' tell us that they are better 
than when they went away." The men show that they have been 
well taken care of, and the manner in which officers watch the 
needs of their men means more than most people are aware of. 

During the month of October, the Battalion took part in the 
Peace Jubilee parade, a celebration gotten up by the City Councils 
to celebrate the close of the war. There was a large attendance 
of Pennsylvania Volunteers and some from other States sent from 
Camp Meade, and who were not yet mustered out of the service. 
The event occupied three days — a Naval parade took place on the 
first day, the Military parade on the second, and a Civic parade on 
the third day. During these festivities the 21st Infantry United 
States Regulars, who had experienced hard service in Cuba and 
took part in the campaign around Santiago, making the gallant 
charge at San Juan Hill, were quartered in the Armory, where 
ev^-ry attention was given to their comfort. 

During the month of November, the officers of the Battalion and 
several officers of the 6th Pennsylvania Regiment, who were in 
the United States Service, were entertained by the Chaplain H. 
A. F. Hoyt, at his home in Cynwyd, assisted by his wife and 
many ladies and gentlemen of his congregation. 

The several companies having been given 60 days to reorganize 



1898 EEPORT OF MAJOR RRAZER 343 

and prepare for muster into the National Guard again, application 
was made to the Adjutant General for the preparatory inspection, 
and in accordance to instructions, they were mustered into the 
National Guard service by Adjt. Charles F. Lumb. during the 
month of December, 1898. 

The report of Major Brazer to the Assistant Adjutant General 
was as follows : 

Headquarters 

State Fencibi.es Battalion- 
First Brigade, N. G. P. 

Philadei,phia, December oth, 1898. 

The Assistant Adjutant General, 

First Brigade, N. G. P. 
Sir: 

I have the honor to submit my annual report for the year 
ending November 30th, 1898. 

Up to the month of April, there was very little of any import- 
ance happened for me to comment upon, and I have only to 
report that the usual routine of military work in the Armory 
was carried on with the same gratifying results as has been 
my pleasure to report on previous occasions; the drills being 
Mell attended and the several companies showing an improve- 
ment over the year of 1897. 

Immediately following the day on which war between the United 
States and Spain was declared, there was manifested a decided 
eagerness on the part of every officer and enlisted man of the 
Command to hasten to the defense of his country. And when the 
President of the United States called for volunteers, and our 
Commander-in-chief ordered into the field the military force of 
the State, the call was responded to by every member of the Bat- 
talion, with the exception of a few men who were unable through 
physical disability to leave their homes. Upon arriving at Mt. 
Gretna, the place selected for the encampment of the troops of 
our State, we at once began to experience some of the hardships 
incident to an active campaign. The weather was stormy and cold, 
and continued so during the greater part of the three weeks' stay 
in the camp; but notwithstanding the inclement weather, and the 
exposure to which the men were subjected, there was but very 
little sickness among the members of my Command while at Camp 
Hastings. 

On the 2nd of May, the Battalion was ordered to report for in- 
spection, after which General Order No. 7 A. G. O. (the contents 



344 t)NE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1898 

of which are familiar to all and consequently unnecessary to re- 
peat here)* was read to the command, which was followed by the 
individual volunteering of the officers and enlisted men. In this 
connection I might mention, that previous to the inspection I 
made an earnest appeal to the Commander-in-chief to be permitted 
to recruit my Command to a full regiment of infantry in order 
that the State Feneibles, which organization had a continuous 
record since 1813, might enter the service of the United States pre- 
serving their identity as an organization ; but jiennission was 
refused, the Governor seeming to be powerless to increase the 
number of regiments at that time. My Command, however, was 
there for the purpose of volunteering its services in defense of 
the flag, and to be accepted were obliged to enter the army as an 
extra Battalion of one of the Eegiments of our State, thereby, 
sacrificing the colors we had carried so long. By permission of 
the Commander-in-chief, we selected the Sixth Infantry, and on 
the 13th of May, were mustered into the service of the United 
States as the 1st Battalion of that Eegiment; Col. John W. Schall, 
commanding. 

On the 19th of May, we were sent from Mt. Gretna to Camp 
Alger, Falls Church, Virginia, where our Eegiment was assigned 
to the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corjis. We 
were obliged to remain in this camp suffering great discomfort 
from the intense heat, and from the crowded and unhealthy 
condition of our quarters until the third of August, when our Divi- 
sion was hurriedly started on a march to Thoroughfare Gap, 
Virginia, (a distance of sixty-eight miles), stopping on our way 
at Burk's Station, Bull Eun, Manassas, and Bristow, arriving at 
Thoroughfare Gap on the 9th of August. This movement was 
made necessary to escape the ravages of typhoid fever which 
had infected Camp Alger to an alarming degree. 

Once free from the monotony of a permanent camp there was 
noticed a marked improvement in the spirits of the men. Long 
had they hoped to be sent to the enemy's country that they might 
participate in the more active part of the war, but disappointed in 
that, any change from the dull and uninteresting life of Camp 
Alger, was welcomed by all. The march was full of interesting 
incidents, all of which served to familiarize the men with their 
duties as soldiers in almost every emergency. 

Our Eegiment remained in camp at Thoroughfare Gap until the 
25th of August, when orders were received to proceed to Camp 
Meade at Middletown, Pa., the movement being by rail. From 
Camp Meade the Eegiment was furloughed for thirty days, and 
on the 7th of September my Command proceeded by rail, to our 
home station (Philadelphia), arriving there at 5.30 P. M. the same 
day. 

♦See page 334. 



1899 INSPECTION— ELECTION— PARA DK 345 

On October 7tli, the Battalion was rcasst-nibled for muster out, 
and on October 17th, the work was concluded, the officers and en- 
listed men all receiving honorable discharges from the service of 
the United States. The experience gained while in the volunteer 
army has unquestionably increased the efficiency of my Command, 
and while we all regret not seeing more active service, I feel con- 
fident that had tiie Battalion gone into active service it would have 
given a good account of itself. 

The health of the Command continued fairly good, thougli the 
dreaded fevers, which were so prevalent in the pennanent camps, 
attacked a number of my men, three of whom, I regret to report, 
died. Their names follow — Privates George H. Neil, William G. 
Hamlin and Peter Sholley, all of Company K. Now, that the 
Command has been mustered out of the volunteer army, it is 
actively engaged in preparing to re-enter the National Guard, 
of which, the State Fencibles have been a part for many years. 
I am, sir. Very respectfully, 

THUEBER T. BRAZER, 

Major. 

The year of 1899 opened with the desire on the part of every 
company in the command to again resume its old standing. 

On April 19th, Companies A, B, C, D were inspected and 
mustered by Maj. Charles H. Worman. Brigade Inspector of the 
1st Brigade. 

On April 27th, the Battalion assembled at the Armory in full 
dress uniform to take part with the 1st Brigade in the unveiling 
of the equestrian statue of Gen. U. S. Grant in East Fairmount 
Park. 

On May 14th, an election was held for commanding officers; 
Major Brazer's time having expired while serving in the Spanish 
American War. He was unanimously re-elected, which was an en- 
dorsement of his ability as a soldier and his generosity as a man. 

On May 26th, occured the 86th anniversary of the Battalion. 
The regular parade was dispensed with on this occasion and on 
Sunday, the 28th, the Battalion paraded in full uniform to attend 
divine service at the Church of the Incarnation at Broad and 
Jefferson streets, where a patriotic sermon was delivered by our 
Chaplain, the Rev. H. A. F. Hoyt, D.D. 

During the session of the Legislature of Pennsylvania of 1899, 
a bill was passed reorganizing the National Guard by adopting the 
same regulations as the United States Army, making each regi- 
ment consist of three battalions, M'hich called for some changes that 



346 O^E HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1899 

tended to menace the existence of some of the organizations then 
composing the Guard. Some must be extinguished in order to 
accomplish the result. It was a matter of much concern to the 
members of the Fencibles, who were desirous of preserving its con- 
tinuous existence. It was freely discussed by the Board of Officers 
what steps should be taken for its safety. "While they had no ob- 
jection to being attached to a regiment for any field service called 
upon to perform, it claimed an independence regarding the choice 
of its own Commanding Officer, which the law passed in 1878, gave 
them, and which had been incorporated in every reorganization 
act passed since that time. 

At the stated meeting of the Board of Officers, June 14th, 1899, 
a resolution was passed empowering the Commanding Officer to act 
for the best interests of the Battalion under, the reorganization 
bill. 

During the balance of the year nothing occurred in the way 
of military display. The several companies were endeavoring to 
perfect their organization and get it in good condition, which 
required much work for the officers since their return from active 
service. During the summer, a number of the members of Com- 
pany C went into camp at Island Heights, N. J. Whlie in camp 
they were visited by Major Brazer and a number of the officers. 

On December 22nd, 23rd, 26th, and 28th, Companies B, D, A, and 
C were inspected by Maj. Charles H. Worman, Brigade Inspector. 
There being no camp of the Guard this summer, these inspections 
were in lieu of the camp inspection. 

At this period in the history of the organization there occurred 
events that threatened to extinguish this venerable Battalion, in- 
stigated by a few associated with it to gratify their selfish am- 
bition for advancement. Men who were without that '^ esprit de 
corps" which always distinguished the members of this organiza- 
tion, and who did not hesitate to sacrifice their comrades and 
strike a fatal blow at the life of the Battalion to accomplish their 
desires. For the first time in its history the stalwart Fencibles 
buckled on their armor to battle for its ancient rights and priv- 
ileges, and to preserve the charge given them by the Veterans of 
1813. 

Various rumors were rife from all quarters in the City and 
State that the State Fencibles would be ruled out as an organiza- 



1900 TiKORCiANIZATTOX OF FEXC'TRLER 347 

tion in the National Guard and would be known no more as a 
distinet organization, also that they were to be merged into the 6th 
Reginieiit: after a faithful service of 87 years and were to be 
used as material to build up an organization whose entire outfit 
was a rural combination, without any standing other than it was 
a regiment in the National Guard, created much consternation 
among the officers and members. Major Brazer had interviews with 
the Governor and Adjutant General regarding the matter of 
caring for the Battalion. After several interviews with the Adju- 
tant General, he Avas satisfied that the Battalion should remain as 
it was ; . but for field duty, would be carried on the roll of the 
6th Regiment. This called for no objection and the matter was 
supposed to be settled. 

During Major Brazer 's visit to Harrisburg to see Governor Stone, 
he was introduced to Col. James Coryell who had been defeated 
for re-election in the 12th Regiment. They had a very friendly 
conversation regarding the Fencibles position under the reorganiza- 
tion act. After returning to the City he received a communication 
from the Colonel asking for an interview ; an answer was promptly 
niaiUd arranging for the same at the Armory. During their con- 
versation, the ex-colonel expressed a desire to become a candi- 
date for the nomination of Colonel of the 6th. where there was a 
vacancy, and. being unacquainted with the officers, he solicited 
Major Brazer to use his influence with some of the officers to place 
him in nomination. The Colonel assuring the Major that in the 
event of his success, and if the Fencibles were assigned to the 
6th, for field duty, he would respect and protect their identity as 
a separate body. The Major had several interviews with some 
of the officers Avho upon his recommendation introduced Coryell 
as a candidate ; he Avas nominated and afterwards elected. Shortly 
after, a caucus was held for the nomination of Lieutenant Colonel 
and IMajor Clyde was nominated and elected. 

The Colonel after receiving a number of applications for the po- 
sition of Adjutant decided to appoint Charles F. Lumb then Adju- 
tant of the Fencibles. a young man of intelligence who had received 
his military education and promotion in the Fencibles. A petition 
was later presented to the Adjutant General asking that the Fenci- 
bles be assigned to the 6th Regiment, the petition purporting to be 
in the interest of Major Brazer retaining his position, which was 
forwarded to headquarters. 



348 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1900 

On May 1st, 1900, the following order was received from the 
Adjutant General at Harrisburg: 

Headquarters National Guard of Penna., 
Adjutant General's Office, 

Harrisburg, May 1st, 1900. 
Orders 
No. 17. 

I. The following assignment of companies of the State Fencibles 
Battalion Infantry is hereby made: 

Company A, State Fencibles Battalion Infantry, Philadelphia, 
Capt. Frederick G. Zeh, to be Company K, Sixth Regiment In- 
fantry. 

Company B, State Fencibles Battalion Infantry, Philadelphia, 
Capt. Charles H. Bowers, to be Company M, Sixth Regiment In- 
fantry. 

Company C, State Fencibles Battalion Infantry, Philadelphia, 
Capt. James L. McBlain, to be Company L, Sixth Regiment In- 
fantry. 

Company D, State Fencibles Battalion Infantry, Philadelphia, 
Capt. Leon E. Dagit, to be Company E, Sixth Regiment In- 
fantry. 

Commanding Officers of the above named companies will report 
to Commanding Officer Sixth Regiment Infantry. 
, 11. Commanding Officers of former companies of State Fencibles 

Battalion Infantry will immediately return cap ornaments to 
State Arsenal, Harrisburg, accompanied by proper invoice and for- 
ward requisition through proper channels for a supply of cap 
ornaments with regimental number and new company letter. 

This left the Commanding Officer of the Fencibles without a 
Command, other than his personal staff and a few who objected to 
the transfer. A number of the members applied for their dis- 
charges, which were returned from Regimental Headquarters not 
approved. Some served their enlistments, others were discharged 
for neglect of duty. 

Orders having been issued from headquarters First Brigade for 
an election to be held on May 17th, for Lieutenant Colonel of the 
Sixth Regiment to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of 
Lieutenant Colonel Clyde, Major Brazer was nominated with 
other candidates in the field, one being the Fencibles former Adju- 
tant, Lumb. On the evening of the election the companies of the 
Sixth held a caucus, excluding the Philadelphia companies from 
participating; as a result, the eight company officers of the old 
Sixth decided on one man, and the result of the election was, that 



r. S 




1900 ANNIVERSARY— PRESENTATION 349 

Captain Cornwall won by a vote of 17 to 13. After the election 
for Lieutenant Colonel they held an election for Major and elected 
Adjutant Lumb. 

As the 87th anniversary was approaching it was intended by the 
Commanding Officer to make the usual parade on that day, but 
owing to the events of the past month it was indefinitely postponed. 
It was decided by the officers to have a banquet on that occasion 
which was attended by a large number of the old members. Dur- 
ing the evening they decided to reorganize the Old Guard, to 
assist the active Battalion in perpetuating the organization and 
claim the rights it was justly entitled. Many speeches were made 
by some of the old members and officers of the Fencibles, and a 
beautiful massive silver loving cup was presented to Major Brazer. 

On May 30th, the officers decorated the grave of Maj. John W. 
Ryan in Woodland Cemetery. 

During the month Captain Zeh, Lieutenant Burton, Lieutenant 
Jackson, and Lieutenant Dellop resigned from the 6th Regiment 
and took charge of their old companies in the Fencibles as the 
Commandment of the 6th had ordered one of their number before 
the Brigade Board for re-examination. 

The other officers still continued to act with the Board of Direct- 
ors, Captain Bowers as vice-president, although transferred to 
the 6th Regiment, until October. 

Nothing transpired during the summer months, no business of 
importance was transacted by the Battalion. The 6th Regiment 
companies still occupied the Armory claiming that they were the 
State Fencibles. 

October 10th, being the regular monthly meeting of the Board, 
the Officers of the Fencibles assembled and retired to the Board 
Room to transact their business and found several expelled mem- 
bers were present. They were invited to retire which they re- 
fused to do. 

On the following week while a committee of five was trans- 
acting business in the Board room, several officers of the 6th Pa. 
N. G. P. entered the room and demanded that the Fencibles retire. 
After vain efforts to terrorize, by empty threats, they ingloriously 
left the room and held a meeting elsewhere. 

During this period Colonel Coryell and Major Lumb came to the 
Armory and endeavored to get possession of the building. On an- 



350 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1900 

other occasion the Major accompanied by W. Lee Patton, Esq., 
came and demanded the keys. Finally the last attempt to get 
possession was by procuring an officer of the American District 
Telegraph Co. and engaging him to take charge of the Armory, 
introducing him to the superintendent as his successor and giv- 
ing the superintendent his discharge in writing stating that his 
services were no longer required. A bill later was introduced in 
the City Councils asking for the transfer of the lease of the build- 
ing to the 6th Regiment. The case was referred to the committee 
on City property, before whom Comrade Furth delivered an ad- 
dress, when they unanimously decided to report it to Councils with 
a negative recommendation. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

1900—1903. 

ADDRESS BY COMRADE EMANUEL FORTH BEFORE THE JOINT COMMITTEE 
OF COUNCILS — SUIT IN EQUITY TO OUST THE PENCIBLES FROM 
ARMORY — 88th ANNIVERSARY — OPINION OF JUDGE MCCARTHY IN 
MATTER OF SUIT — OPINION OF SUPREME COURT. 

The following is an address delivered by Emanuel Furtli, Esq., 
before the Joint Committee on City property of the Councils of 
the City of Philadelphia, December 6th, 1900. In opposition to 
a resolution to transfer the lease of the Armory, Broad and Race 
Streets, from the Infantry Corps State Fencibles to the Sixth 
Regiment, N. G. P. 

Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen: 

Ever since the first day of May of the present year, when the 
Adjutant General of the State of Pennsylvania took four com- 
panies of the Infantry Battalion State Fencibles and changed 
their names and lettering and attached them to the Sixth Reg- 
iment, a controversy has been raging in your midst. Ever since 
then, the Sixth Eegiment, composed in two-thirds parts of com- 
panies recruited in four rural counties surrounding Philadelphia, 
and one-third part of the four companies of the State Fencibles, 
has endeavored to seize and appropriate the Armory of the State 
Fencibles, so that the Colonel of the Sixth, might establish his 
headquarters in this City. 

I have the honor to appear before you today and by your cour- 
tesy, for the purpose of opposing the resolution which is pending 
before you. 

I shall present for your consideration the legal, equitable and 
sentimental grounds for a negative report by this committee 
to Councils, of the resolution to transfer the Armory to the Sixth 
Regiment, and practically everything I shall say to you will be 
supported by charter, deeds and history, familiar to every citizen 
of Philadelphia. 

Throughout this controversy, considerable of it unseemly, carried 
on by our opponents, we have remained absolutely silent. This 
is the first opportunity we have taken of stating our position to 
an authoritative body entrusted with the right to decide this 
question. 

351 



352 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1900 

After the introduction of the resolution in Councils, I was sum- 
moned to the office of the City Solicitor, to a conference ^Yith him, 
the Colonel of the Sixth Regiment and his Adjutant. When my 
position had been stated in a very compressed and brief form, 
the City Solicitor, who had at that time no legal objection to the 
adoption of this resolution, apparently changed his mind, and 
stated that the opinion which he had practically framed, though 
perhaps not formally written out, would be withheld, and that 
he was ready, after consideration, to formulate an opinion, he 
would furnish counsel of the Infantry Corps State Feneibles 
a copy thereof. 

I had the pleasure of listening to it today for the first time; I 
say the pleasure of listening to it, because after all it does not 
say very much; it is not, in my judgment, a legal opinion; it 
does not take in consideration either the law or the facts, and 
you are at liberty, so far as the opinion is concerned, to form 
your own conclusions. I pass it by without further consideration. 

I represent a corporation; I have the charter with me and will 
present it for your consideration in a very few minutes. 

It was incorporated in 1876, during the Centennial Anniversary 
of our existence as a Nation, and it was incorporated as the In- 
fantry Corps State Feneibles — let there be no mistake upon 
the proposition — it was incorporated and its charter exists today, 
as the Infantry Corps of State Feneibles, at that time commanded 
by Maj. John W. Ryan. It was incorporated to maintain an 
independent company of that name, formed as long ago as 1813, 
and from 1813 down to the first day of May, 1900, it was the 
glory and honor of Philadelphia. In every active campaign in 
which this City, this State or this Country participated ; in local. 
State and National warfare, this organization, which began 
its career in 1813 as an independent military organization, bore its 
place of honor, in the front. It is prepared to do so today, and 
I frankly admit, for the purposes of this discussion, that the 
Infantry Battalion State Feneibles is not a member of the Nation- 
al Guard, but I deny what Colonel Potter said here, that it is not 
amenable to the call of the Governor: far higher than the organ- 
ized militia of this Commonwealth, with its gilt and trappings, 
uniforms and bayonets, is the posse comitatus, the power of the 
county, the citizens of the County of Philadelphia, and we are 
here to stand by the citizens of Philadelphia, in riot and dis- 
order and in time of bloodshed, just as we did in the past, as a 
part of the posse comitatus of this county, the right to call which 
exists in the Governor, in the Mayor and in the Sheriff, and we are 
here to serve you — and let there be no misunderstanding upon that 
subject — in the future, just as we have in the past. 

I see, Mr. Chairman and gentlemen, that this corporation, incor- 
porated in 1876, then one company and afterwards enlarged into 



1900 SPEECH OF COMRADE FURTH 353 

a Battalion of four companies, obtained from the City of Phila- 
delphia, by reason of an ordinance adopted in 1883, an Armory. 
Will any one of you cast your mind back to that time and that 
Armory, that ramshakle of a barn, an old dilapidated structure, 
a disgrace to Philadelphia, that the First Regiment had aban- 
doned in disgust. 

The First Regiment moved its quarters to its present sumj)tuous 
place of abode, two squares further north, and the question then 
arose — what shall the City do with this old, dilapidated, barn-like 
structure? It was on the hands of the City ot Philadelphia, and 
Major Ryan and his gallant men stepped into the breach and 
said to the City of Philadelphia, ' ' We will take that Armory 
off your hands, let us have it, let this corporation have it, and we 
will raise enough money to put an Armory there that will be a 
matter of glory and pride to the City of Philadelphia," just like 
the Corps I have the honor to represent. And in pursuance of that 
thought this indenture of lease, the solemn deed of the City of 
Philadelphia, was entered into on the first day of October, 1884, 
between the City of Philadelphia, party of the first part, and 
the Infantry Corps of the State Fencibles, National Guard of 
Pennsylvania, (I dodge nothing in this controversy), "National 
Guard of Pennsylvania ' ' is the description of the parties, and 
when we come to the habendum clause which is the real clause, 
as every lawyer knows, of an indenture of lease, we read as fol- 
lows: "Now therefore this Indenture witnesseth, that the said 
City of Philadelphia does hereby let and demise unto the said 
the Infantry Corps of State Fencibles," (no National Guard of 
Pennsylvania that my friends would plume themselves upon) 
"for the term of ten years from the first day of March, 1884." 

Then follows the description of the Armory property, and a pro- 
vision that the improvements made to the Armory by the lessee 
with the sanction of the Commissioner of the City Property, 
shall revert to and become the property of the lessor, the City of 
Philadelphia, at the expiration of the lease, and then provides 
for a renewal of the term for ten years, and ' ' In Witness whereof 
the City of Philadelphia hath hereunto set her seal and caused 
these presents to be executed by William Dixey" (the predecessor 
of my friend, Mr. Pierie) ' ' the Commissioner of Markets and 
City Property, and the said, the Infantry Corps of State Fenci- 
bles hath hereunto set its corporate seal, attested by the signa- 
ture of its President and Secretary," — not by its Major, not by 
its Lieutenant Colonel, not by its office boy, but by its President 
and Secretary — and here is, as the gentleman from the Twentieth 
Ward (Mr. Hawkes) very well says — the solemn covenant of the 
City of Philadelphia, upon which T might rely and stand and for- 
ever keep the peace. 

It would be unfair to let this controversy rest upon a purely 
legal ground. 
23 



354 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1900 

As I say, the State Fencibles, when they took this ramshakle 
structure, spent over One Hundred Thousand Dollars of the money 
of the citizens of Philadelphia, including that which its members 
contributed out of their pockets for the purpose, and I happened 
to be one at that time, for I was a member of the Infantry Bat- 
talion State Fencibles, I helped to raise the money ; we all went to 
the citizens of Philadelphia so that they might help us to build the 
Armory that will revert to the City of Philadelphia in four years 
in the magnificent form in which it exists today. 

We are asked to give it up. For what? For whom? And 
why? Because the Adjutant General of the State of Pennsyl- 
vania, over whom you have no control, as Colonel Potter put it, 
by formal military order transferred the four companies, as I 
have aleady stated; oecause you cannot call upon these people 
because, just think of it the Old Guard of the Fencibles cannot 
be trusted with an Armory containing — you might almost think it 
contained ammunition. 

Begging the questions put to Colonel Potter by members of this 
committee as to where the Sixth Eegiment is now located, we 
waited in vain for a reply. Coming as it does from Bucks County, 
Montgomery County, Delaware County, Chester County, where 
should it be located? 

I will undertake to answer this rather vital question. It marched 
from the counties named, through the ranks of these four com- 
panies, into the City of Philadelphia, but it has not, in those four 
companies, ten per cent, of the men who were transferred; they 
would not stay there, and do you censure them? 

They did not have more than an average of fifteen men to a 
company to drill with, in this wonderful Sixth Eegiment. And 
where are they drilling 1 In the Armory of the State Fencibles, by 
our courtesy, notwithstanding all the slanderous reports they have 
circulated about us; notwithstanding the deceptive circulars sent 
out through the mails of this City; notwithstanding all the 
efforts they have made to get the newspaper press, which never 
misrepresents, to endeavor to turn the sentiment of the citizens 
and Councils of the City of Philadelphia against us. And we 
have volunteered, time and again to make any arrangement with 
these gentlemen, in an amicable fashion, by which they shall 
have, with your permission, joint possession with us and without 
hindrance or interference upon our part — these four companies can 
meet there and drill, if they can ever get more than four skeleton 
companies together to rattle their dry bones in aid of this repre- 
hensible project. 

That is not what they want, they desire to put the Sixth Eegi- 
ment in, to take the result of our work and of the citizens 
of Philadelphia and plant this rural regiment in our midst, with 
headquarters for its Colonel here; to take exclusive possession of 
our place. 



1900 SPEECH OF COMKADE FURTH 355 

I said to you gentlemen, when I bej^an my address, in answer to 
the assertion that this Battalion could not be called out, that it was 
a part, and a very reliable part of the power of the county, and 
I say so yet, but it is no idle dream that we may yet be reinstated 
by the Legislature as the Battalion State Fencibles. 

The Legislature of this Commonwealth is as much superior to the 
Adjutant General of this Commonwealth as the Adjutant General 
now claims he is superior to you. 

It was thought, Gentlemen of this Committee, at one time, and it 
was thought with good reason and upon assurances that any hon- 
orable man or honorable body of men would believe, that after the 
Spanish War, after we went to the front with the Sixth Regiment 
as a Battalion of the Sixth Regiment, after our gallant Major 
Brazer, who acted practically during the entire term of service 
as the Lieutenant Colonel of the Sixth Regiment, and who is 
today a member of the National Guard and Major of the State 
Fencibles, as much as he ever was; it was thought, that after he 
had gone with them to camp and trailed along to add to the glory 
of the Sixth Regiment, thLs Battalion composed of the State Fen- 
cibles, would be put in permanently as a Battalion, State Fencibles 
of the Sixth Regiment — and so it was promised to us: a promise 
made to the ear and broken to the heart. A promise made simply 
and solely for the purpose of getting these four companies away 
from where they really belonged, to augment the power and glory 
of the Colonel and his gallant Sixth. 

And now they come to the Councils of the City of Philadelphia, 
these men from Heaven knows where, and ask you to transfer our 
lease to them. And what does it mean? It means that you must 
break your solemn deed and covenant with us, upon which we stand 
and where we stand for the pvirpose, just as we stood in the past, 
of rendering the citizens of Philadelphia a duty which every citizen 
owes to his State, and where we hope to quietly watch the trend of 
events until our dear old Battalion will be restored to the National 
Guard of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 

Are you going to force us to wait without a hope? Have we 
deserved it? Have we not a past behind us that you dare not turn 
your backs upon? Have we not waited in patience? Have we 
not done so in a manful, in a soldier-like way? Have we not 
given the State, through these so-called four companies — Heaven 
save the mark! — the courtesies of our Armory? Have we not 
done everything in our power to promote the study of military 
science, but you cannot make men study military science under 
one flag when their devotion and their hearts are to another. 

And the Battalion is still living, we have a Major, who is in this 
room; all the Staff Officers, and we have Company Commanders, 
all of whom, until this resolution was introduced, formed a part of 
our Board of Officers; we have by-laws and a Charter. 



356 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1900 

Prior to the introduction of this resolution these company com- 
manders formed part of our Board of Officers, since then they 
have written us, one after another declining to take any hand with 
us though not resigning; you can, if you desire, see these letters, 
though they are not pleasant reading to men permeated with 
a sense of honor. 

We are here. Major, Officers, and four companies, ready to go 
into the National Guard, ready when the Adjutant General changes 
his mind, and I would not like to be too sure that he will not, 
and if the Adjutant General does not change his mind, ready to 
await the call of the Legislature of this Commonwealth to go 
back again. 

And if both are denied us, and if we are obliged to simply 
dream about this glorious past, let us keep the Armory that we 
built, for the four years that we are still entitled to have it by 
your solemn deed, and we will promise to keep the Armory in 
good condition ; and there is no complaint upon that score ; we 
will promise to do our whole duty by the City and by the State, if 
they will permit us; and if they wont, at the end of the four 
years when our term is up, you can hand it over to whomsoever you 
please. 

You can give it to the Sixth Regiment, and if they can rest 
easily upon our laurels, they are welcome to it, and the Infantry 
Battalion State Fencibles will retire from the Armory but will con- 
tinue to live in spite of Adjutant Generals, Legislatures, Councils 
and all else, for we have a pride in this matter that we ought to 
maintain and is very dear to our hearts; that will serve to renew 
and keep alive our civic duties and attachments to this our City 
of Homes. 

We will remain in existence as long as there is a Commonwealth 
of Pennsylvania and a City of Philadelphia ; we will pay our own 
expenses and glory in the privilege of doing it; but we do ask 
you, upon the legal, equitable and sentimental grounds which I 
have stated, to let us remain in our Armory and wait for the time 
when there may be, more than likely will be, a call that will sum- 
mon us to duty, the same kind of duty which we so gloriously per- 
formed in the past, to convince you that there is still a living, 
active Infantry Corps State Fencibles. 

The Committee unanimously resolved to report the resolution to 
Councils with a negative recommendation. 

At the regular meeting of the Board of Director.s February 13th, 
1901, the members of the several companies were elected members 
of the corporation. During the month Messrs. Melick, Potter and 
Dechart, counsel for the four companies of the Sixth Regiment, 



1901 DECISION OF THE COURT 357 

filed a bill in Court of Coinnion Pleas No. 3, contesting the right 
of the corporation to the title and property and lease of the Armory 
of State Fencibles. Messrs. Furth, Singer and Graham conducted 
the ease for the Corporation. Comrade Furth having volunteered 
his services in defense of the Battalion of which he was a member. 

On ]\Iay 26th, the Old Guard commemorated the 88th anniver- 
sary' by a banquet in the Armory, many members of the Batt<ilion 
participating. A number of invited guests were present among 
whom were Ex-Governor Robert E. Pattison, Ex-Mayor Charles E. 
"Warwick, Gen. George R. Snowdeu, Col. Wendel P. i^owmau, 
Comrade Emanuel Furth, I. Singer, Esq. ; George Graham. Ksq. ; 
and a number of others. Speeches were made by many of them 
and the evening was an enjoyable event. 

In the middle of August quite a number of members went into 
camp at Island Heights, N. J., and were under the command of 
Capt. W. T. l^urton. During their stay, they were visited by 
]\Ia,ior Brazer and Staff, and a mumber of friends. After spending 
an enjoyable ten days, they returned home in splendid condition. 

In the month of October, His Honor Judge McCarthy, of Court 
No. 3, rendered his decision in the suit brought before him by the 
four companies of the Sixth Regiment, plaintiffs, vs. The Infantry 
Battalion State Fencibles, defendants, denying the plaintiff's' plea 
for possession of title, property and lease, and recognizing the 
Corporation as a distinct body. 

The following is a report of the Bill in Equity : 

MlHLBAUER, ET AL., V. INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES, 
ET AL. 

(Vol. 10, Penna. Dist. Eeports, page 585, &e.) 

Nationnl Guard — Corporate Bights and Corporate Identity — 
Battalion of State Fencibles. 

Military Code — Act of April 28, 1899. 

Findings of fact and law. C. P. No. 3, Phila. Co., Dee. T., 1900, 
No. 918, In Equity. 

Samuel F. Clevenger and Melick, Potter & Dechert, for plaintiffs. 

Furth & Singer and George S. Graham, for defendants. 

McCarthy, J., Oct. 11, 1901. — This cause was tried on June 13 
and 14, 1901, before me, sitting as chancellor. The parties both 
plaintiffs and defendants, were represented by counsel. Evidence 



358 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1901 

was given in open court on behalf of the plaintiffs. The de- 
fendants offered no testimony, and, after the hearing of plaintiffs' 
evidence, moved the court to dismiss the bill. The case was 
fully argued by counsel. The plaintiffs presented requests for find- 
ings both of fact and of law, which are hereto attached in order 
that the same may be filed by the prothonotary as part of the 
record in the case. 

ABSTRACT OF THE PLEADINGS. 

The bill, as amended at the trial by agreement of counsel, sets 
forth that plaintiffs are captains, commanding respectively four 
companies of the Sixth Regiment, National Guard of Pennsylvania, 
and are complaining as well for themselves as in behalf of the 
other members of the said companies; that on June 16, 1883, the 
' ' Infantry Battalion of State Fencibles, National Guard of Penn- 
sylvania" was, and has since continued to be, a military organiza- 
tion, consisting of four companies, which were not and are not 
incorporated as civil corporations, either separately or together as 
a battalion; that the "Infantry Corps of State Fencibles" on 
the said date was, and has since continued to be, a body cor- 
porate, of which the individuals named as defendants are officers; 
that on June 16, 1883, City Councils passed an ordinance author- 
izing a lease of the City Armory to the Infantry Battalion of State 
Fencibles, National Guard of Pennsylvania, with proviso, that 
the building should not be used for other than military pur- 
poses; that the battalion named in the ordinance was composed 
of the four companies of which plaintiffs are the captains; that 
the major of the battalion, signing himself president, afterwards 
executed a lease of the City Armory, dated Oct. 1, 1884, which 
was intended for the use and benefit of the battalion ; that the 
four companies, "for whose sole use and benefit said lease was 
made and is held by said corporation defendant, ' ' took immediate 
possession of the armory, and have been in continuous and uninter- 
rupted possession to the present time for military purposes, de- 
tailed in the bill; that on May 1, 1900, by order of the Governor, 
the said four companies were assigned to the Sixth Regiment ; 
their designations were changed, and they together formed the 
Third Battalion of said regiment; that the officers were not 
changed nor the organization of the companies affected ; that three 
of the plaintiffs continued to act as captains under the same 
commissions as before; that the plaintiff, Mihlbauer, was elected 
and commissioned captain of Company K, Sixth Regiment, to 
fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Captain Zeh ; that the 
' ' Infantry Corps of State Fencibles ' ' was incorporated by Court of 
Common Pleas No. 4, of this county, on Feb. 17, 1876 ; that it was 
not and has never been a part of the National Guard, nor a 
military organization, nor has it pursued any military purpose, 



inOl DECISION OF THE COURT 

nor used nor occupied the armory for any corporate piirposo; 
that in executing the lease the corps took the same for the benefit 
of the battalion, and acquired no right to use the armory or to 
exclude the battalion from the use of any part of it ; that on Mav 
1, 1900, the corporation wrongfully excluded and still excludes 
from the armory the four companies constituting the Third Bat- 
talion, Sixth Regiment, being identically the same companies 
and organizations for whose use the lease was made, by replacing 
locks, locking up rooms, giving use of the drill floor to other per- 
sons and civil bodies, and refusing to the said four companies of 
the Sixth Regiment free ingress and egress to and from the 
rooms and building, and access to the arms and property stored 
therein ; that the battalion was possessed of certain personal prop- 
erty which is in said armory, and the corporation defendant has 
wrongfully taken possession of the same, and holds and uses it 
in interference with the rights of the said four companies; 
that the corporation defendant has unlawfully assumed control of 
the moneys of the said four companies in the hands of the treas- 
urer of the board of officers of the battalion, who was also treas- 
urer of the said corporation, which moneys amount to $700 and 
upwards. 

The prayers are for injunctions to restrain defendants (1) from 
interfering with the sole use and possession of the armory "by 
Companies E, K, L, and M, of the Sixth Regiment;" (2) from 
withholding from said companies the sole custody and use of 
the personal property in the armory; and (3) from using the funds 
in the hands of the treasurer collected for the benefit of said 
four companies; for a decree that the lease is held in trust for the 
sole use and benefit of the said four companies of the Sixth Regi- 
ment; and for further relief. 

The answer, as amended by agreement of counsel, among other 
things denies that plaintiffs are acting in behalf of other mem- 
bers of the said four companies, and asks disclosure of the alleged 
additional plaintiffs ; avers that the Infantry Corps State Fencibles 
was instituted in 1813, and has ever since been a part of the 
National Guard of Pennsylvania; that it was a single company 
until July 8, 1878, when it was authorized to recruit three addi- 
tional companies, which it did, thereafter consisting of four 
companies, a major and a staff of officers; it admits the incorpo- 
ration of the corps; that the individuals named as defendants are 
the officers of the corporation; that the ordinance of June 16, 
1883, was passed and approved and the lease of the armory exe- 
cuted to the corps; avers that the lease was executed by the civil 
corporation with the undoubted intent of assuring the military 
battalion the conjoint use of the armory, and that it has been so 
conjointly used to the present time; that the armory is used not 
only by the four companies of Fencibles, but also for military 
purposes by the major and the field and staff officers, who, 



:3r)9 



360 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1901 

' ' together with the four companies and their officers, comprised 
the battalion;" that the corporation contained and contains many 
members not connected with the National Guard; that it assumed 
charge and control of the armory and contracted and paid the 
expenses of conducting it from date of possession to the present 
time; that by General Order No. 17, dated May 1, 1900, a copy of 
which is annexed to the answer, the four companies of the Fenci- 
bles were assigned as four companies respectively of the Sixth 
Regiment, and directed to report to its colonel; that defendant, 
Zeh, at that time captain of Company A, resigned, and the plain- 
tiff, Mihlbauer, who was not a member of the Feneibles, was 
elected and commissioned captain of Company K, Sixth Regiment, 
and that he has neither a legal nor equitable right of suit herein ; 
that General Order No. 17 is in direct contravention of the Act of 
April 28, 1899, 10 P. L. 133, and in consequence, Captain Zeh 
and a large number of the members of said four companies of the 
Feneibles tendered their resignations and refused to connect 
themselves with the Sixth Regiment, so that less than six officers 
and privates out of two hundred are acting with said transferred 
companies of the Sixth Regiment; it denies that the corporation 
never maintained a military organization, and avers that from 
its creation until May 1, 1900, it assisted in maintaining the 
battalion, and since November, 1900, it has organized and main- 
tains another battalion, known as the Infantry Battalion State 
Feneibles, to perpetuate the organization instituted in 1813 ; it 
avers that the four companies down to the present time have occu- 
pied and used the armory for military purposes, and that all their 
property, arms and equipment are under their own control, and 
that they have not been interfered with in the use of the armory; 
that, in consequence of threats made to eject defendants from 
the armory and turn over its possession to the Sixth Regiment, 
the corporation defendant caused the old lock at the entrance 
to be replaced, and intrusted the new key to the superintendent 
of the armory, but the building has since, at all times, been and 
now is open for the use of plaintiffs precisely as they have used 
it heretofore; that the personal property at the armory was pur- 
chased by the corporation, and the use and enjoyment of it by said 
companies has not been interfered with by defendants; that the 
corporation borrowed money on April 14, 1897, to make improve- 
ments at the armory and issued eight bonds, of which five are out- 
standing, and for payment of which said personal property is 
pledged; that the sources of revenue of the corporation are dues 
of members unconnected with the National Guard, collections 
from citizens and moneys derived from the State and city by the 
battalion, all of which are paid over to the treasurer of the corpo- 
ration and disbursed for the benefit of the battalion and main- 
tenance of the armory; that the plaintiffs and their companies 
have not paid anything for the expenses of the armory since 



1901 DECISION OF THE COURT 2C)1 

May 1, 1900, although regularly receiving an armory fuml from 
the city; and that on Dec. 6, 1900, plaintitts, with the colonel 
and other ofTicers of the Sixth Regiment, applied to City Councils 
for a transfer of the lease of the armory to tlie Sixth Regiment 
on the same grounds as alleged in this proceeding, hut the apjilica- 
tion was rejected. 

From this abstract it appears that the main question for deter- 
mination is, whether the four companies of the Sixth Regiment 
are entitled to the exclusive use and possession of the City Armory 
or not; the solution of which depends upon that of the furtiier 
questions; whether the said four companies constitute the Infantry 
Battalion of State Fencibles or not, and whether the present lessee 
of the armory holds the term in trust for the said four companies 
or not. 

FINDINGS OF F'ACT. 

The following facts are established by the pleadings and the evi- 
dence heard at the trial: 

1. In 1813 was formed a military body, named "The Infantry 
Corps, State Fencibles. ' ' It consisted of one company of infantry, 
commanded by a captain and other company officers. 

2. On March 11, 1876, a charter was granted incorporating the 
"Infantry Corps of State Fencibles." The purposes of the cor- 
poration, as expressed in the charter, are ' ' to aid and benefit its 
members and to secure theif proficiency in the military science 
and fox social enjoyments." The members of the corporation were 
first and principally, active members, who were the members of the 
military body ; secondly, contributing members, who were not 
members of the military body ; and thirdly, honorary members. 

3. In 1878, under authority from the Commonwealth, the corps 
recruited three additional companies, and thereafter was known 
as "The Infantry Battalion of State Fencibles." The organiza- 
tion then consisted of four companies of infantry, designated as 
"Company A," "Company B," "Company C," and "Company 
D, " respectively, each company being commanded by its captain 
and other company officers, and the whole battalion being under 
command of a major and possessing a staff of officers, commis- 
sioned and non-commissioned. 

4. At the time of or shortly after the formation of the battalion 
a mistake arose as to the name of the corporation, which became 
inveterate and has been perpetuated to the present time. The 
word "Battalion" was substituted for "Corps" in the name 
of the corporation, which was thereafter known, as well to its 
members as to the community in general, by the erroneous desig- 
nation of "Infantry Battalion of State Fencibles." This substi- 
tution appears in the seal of the corporation, in the book printed 
by the corporation and offered in evidence, containing a copy of 
the charter, in the by-laws printed in the same volume, in the 



362 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1901 

bonds issued by the corporation, and in the bill and answer in 
this case as originally filed. 

5. There was not only a confusion of the names of the two 
bodies but a confounding of their identity, so that the field, 
staff, non-commissioned staff and company officers of the military 
body, under the designation of "Board of Officers of the State 
Fencibles Battalion, ' ' assumed to act as the corporate body, 
enacted by-laws, elected officers, held meetings, and generally 
conducted the business of the corporation. 

6. On June 16, 1883, was approved an ordinance passed by the 
Select and Common Councils of the City of Philadelphia, author- 
izing the Commissioner of Markets and City Property to demise 
to the ' ' Infantry Battalion of State Fencibles, National Guard 
of Pennsylvania, ' ' the City Armory for ten years, at a nominal 
rental, with privilege of extending the lease for ten years addi- 
tional, and the proviso that the building should not be used "for 
other than military purposes." 

7. On Oct. 1, 1884, a lease in writing was executed between the 
City of Philadelphia and the ' ' Infantry Corps of State Fencibles, 
National Guard of Pennsylvania, a body corporate of the State 
of Pennsylvania, ' ' reciting the afore-mentioned ordinance and 
demising the City Armory to the said ' ' Infantry Corps of State 
Fencibles" for the term and rental and with the privileges and 
restrictions set forth in the ordinance. On behalf of the lessee, 
this instrument was signed by John W. Ryan, president, and 
Charles Berger, secretary of the corporation, and it was sealed 
with the corporate seal. John "W. Ryan at that time was also 
major of the battalion. 

8. Upon the execution of the lease, the battalion and the cor- 
poration took possession of the armory, and have ever since oc- 
cupied and used it, the battalion for drill, for storage of arms and 
equipments, as headquarters, and for other military purposes ; 
the corporation for meetings and transaction of corporate business. 

9. On May 1, 1900, General Orders No. 17 issued from head- 
quarters National Guard of Pennsylvania. It begins: 

' ' I. The following assignment of companies of the State Fenci- 
bles Battalion Infantry is hereby made : Company A, State Fen- 
cibles Battalion Infantry, Philadelphia, Capt. Frederick G. Zeh, 
to be Company K, Sixth Regiment Infantry. ' ' 

In three succeeding paragraphs it makes the like assignments 
of Companies B, C, and D to be Companies M, L, and E, Sixth 
Regiment, respectively. It then directs commanding officers to 
report to commanding officer of the Sixth Regiment, and continues : 

' ' II. Commanding officers of former companies of State Fen- 
cibles Battalion Infantry will immediately return cap ornaments 
to State Arsenal, Harrisburg, accompanied by proper invoice, 
and forward requisition through channels for supply of cap 
ornaments, with regimental number and new company letter." 



1901 * DECISION OF THE COURT 363 

This order did not assign the commanding officer of the battalion 
or the staff officers, commissioned and non-commissioned. 

10. A large majority of the members of the battalion, l)eing 
nearly three-fourths of tlie whole number, were dissatisfied witli 
General Order No. 17 and resigned, refusing to obey it. Among 
the number was the commanding officer of Company A. After 
his resignation, the members of Company A, who continued in the 
command and obeyed the general order, becoming thereby Com- 
pany K, Sixth Regiment Infantry, elected the plaintiff", Mihl- 
bauer, to be their commanding oflScer, and he was afterward com- 
missioned as captain of Company K, Sixth Regiment. Mihlbauer 
was formerly commanding officer of Company A, of the State 
Fencibles Battalion, but he resigned in 1894 and had not since 
been connected with the organization. 

11. The four companies assigned by General Order No. 17, and 
thereby designated as Companies K, M, L, and E, Sixth Regiment 
Infantry, respectively, were after assignment, organized into a new 
battalion, designated as the Third Battalion, Sixth Regiment, 
and Major Lumb, a member of the Sixth Regiment, was assigned 
to command the new battalion. 

12. After May 1, 1900, the members of the Infantry Battalion 
of State Fencibles who resigned, renewed their organization in 
four companies, with the old letter designations. A, B, C, and D, 
respectively, and renewed also the battalion organization under 
the old commanding officer and under the old name of "Infantry 
Battalion, State Fencibles," dropping, however, the addition of 
"National Guard of Pennsylvania," which had been used fonnerly 
as part of the designation of the military body. The organization 
now musters 185 officers and men; it is not connected in any 
way with the National Guard. One of the companies has had 
several drills at the armory, but the four companies of the Sixth 
Regiment have continued to use and occupy the building with 
their company and battalion drills, so that all the nights of the 
week are engaged by them, and the State Fencibles Battalion 
have found it impossible to drill there under the present condition 
of affairs. The companies assigned to the Sixth Regiment have 
continued to use the armory since their assignment in much the 
same way as before, and the evidence does not sustain the aver- 
ments of the bill that the plaintiffs have been excluded from the 
armory or interfered with in the use of it for military purposes. 
On the contrary, it appears that they have materially interfered with 
the use of the building for military purposes by the military body 
adhering to and maintained by the corporation, and that they 
have been treated, notwithstanding this, with commendable for- 
bearance. 

13. In December, 1900, the plaintiffs, or some of them, with their 
associates, caused an application to be made to City Councils 
for the passage of an ordinance to revoke the existing lease of the 



364 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1901 

City Armory, and to authorize a new lease of the same to be made 
granting the use of it to the Sixth Regiment. The bill being 
referred to the joint Committee on City Property, several hearings 
were had before that committee, which reported the bill to Councils 
with a negative recommendation, and, after discussion in Coun- 
cils, pro and con, the report of the committee was adopted, and 
the ordinance failed to pass. 

14. Since May 1, 1900, neither the plaintiffs nor those on behalf 
of whom they sue have either individually or collectively made 
any contribution whatever for the payment of the rent and cost 
of maintenance of the City Armory. 

F1ND3NGS OF LAW. 

1. The real plaintiffs in this action are Companies E, K, L, and 
M of the Sixth Regiment Infantry, National Guard of Pennsyl- 
vania. The nominal plaintiffs, by whom the bill is filed, who are 
the respective commanding officers of the said companies, are not 
suing for the establishment of their individual rights, but in be- 
half of their respective commands as companies. This appears 
from the tenor of the bill, and especially from its prayers, in each 
of which relief is expressly asked for the said four companies 
by name. 

2. Companies E, K, L, and M of the Sixth Regiment Infantry, 
National Guard of Pennsylvania, do not constitute the Infantry 
Battalion of State Fencibles. It is an axiom that the whole is 
equal to the sum of all its parts; no aggregation of parts of a 
thing less than all, however proportionately great, makes up the 
thing itself. When General Orders No. 17 issued, the Battalion of 
State Fencibles was composed of the following parts, namely, 
four companies of infantry, each with its officers, commissioned and 
non-commissioned; one officer commanding the battalion, and a 
battalion staff of officers, commissioned and non-commissioned. 
General Orders No. 17 assigned the four companies as companies; 
it did not assign the remaining parts of the battalion, and it 
did not profess to assign the four companies as a battalion. 
Furthermore, it did not assign the companies as companies of 
State Fencibles: it changed the designation of each company, 
abolished for them the name ' ' State Fencibles, ' ' and severed 
the connection of each with the battalion bearing that name, 
making the assigned companies component parts of a wholly 
different organization, namely, the Sixth Regiment Infantry. 

The practical result of General Orders No. 17 was not to 
transfer the four commands bodily to the Sixth Regiment, with a 
mere change of designations; barely one-fourth of each com- 
mand obeyed the order; see tenth finding of fact, supra. The Act 
of Assembly approved April 28, 1899, P. L. 133, designated as 
"The Military Code of Pennsylvania," provides, by section 10, 
' ' nothing herein contained shall be construed as affecting the 
right of any troop of cavalry, battery of artillery, or company 



1901 DECISION OF THE COURT 355 

of infantry, organized prior to 18G1 and since eontiniiously ni;iiii- 
tained^ to preserve their respective organizations with their original 
vested or chartered rights, ])rivileges and inununities, and said or- 
ganizations shall be deemed legal organizations in addition to the 
number of companies provided for in the 2nd section of this Act. 
The Battalion of State Feneibles was within the spirit of this 
enactment, if not within its letter, and entitled thereby to pre- 
serve its organization, but General Order No. 17 beat down the 
shield of the statute, abolished the name by which the organiza- 
tion had been long and honorably known, disrupted the battalion 
and destroyed its identity. To obey the order was to acquiesce 
in the destruction of the organization ; the only alternative pre- 
sented was to resign from the bodies affected by the order. Three- 
fourths of the commands accepted this alternative and resigned 
in order to preserve the organization which had existed and been 
continuously maintained since 1813, to uphold their chartered 
right, privileges and immunities, and to sustain and perpetuate 
the honorable designation of ' ' State Feneibles. ' ' 

3. The lessee intended by the ordinance of June 16, 1883, was 
the "Infantry Corps of State Feneibles;" that is, the incorpo- 
rated civil body, and not the unincorporated military body. 
That the name specified in the ordinance is ' ' Infantry Battalion 
of State Feneibles, National Guard of Pennsylvania, ' ' affords no 
just ground for concluding that the corporation was not intended 
thereby. As already found, see fourth finding of fact, supra, the 
word "Battalion," by a general though erroneous usage, was 
substituted for "Corps" in the name of the corporation. This 
mistake probably arose from the fact that for the two years suc- 
ceeding the grant of the charter the military body and the civil 
body had the same name; they were both correctly designated 
as the ' ' Infantry Corps of State Feneibles. ' ' When the military 
body changed its designation from "Corps" to "Battalion," it 
was, no doubt, supposed that the like change was essential in the 
designation of the civil body, so that thereafter, as theretofore, 
both bodies should have the same name; and in fact, they were 
both thereafter called by the same name, the "Infantry Battalion 
of State Feneibles, ' ' although, as applied to the corporation, the 
designation was certainly erroneous. 

It is, however, fairly to be inferred that the City Councils, in 
entering into contractual relations regarding the property of the 
city, intended to contract with the corps, which was a single cor- 
porate entity having perpetual succession, rather than with the 
battalion, which was not a single entity having contractual 
powers as such, but was an aggregation of many individuals asso- 
ciated into four separate assemblages or unincorporated societies. 
This inference is confirmed by the fact that the parties to the 
transaction based upon the ordinance so construed it. The lessor's 
careful solicitor, in preparing the draft of the lease, not only 



366 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1901 

inserts the correct corporate name of the lessee, but adds the 
description that it is "a body corporate of the State of Pennsyl- 
vania. " The lease is executed on behalf of the lessee by John 
W. Ryan, at the time major of the battalion as well as president 
of the corps, who affixes to his signature the official title of pres- 
ident and not that of major. The lease is sealed with the seal of 
the corporation; the battalion, being unincorporated, had, of 
course, no seal. The inference is further confirmed by the recent 
action of City Councils, detailed in the thirteenth finding of fact, 
supra, which recognized and affirmed the validity of the lease 
as it exists. 

4. The Infantry Corps of State Fencibles is possessed of the 
full title, legal and equitable, to the term created by the lease, and 
holds the same in its own right and free from any trust. 

There is no trust expressed in the lease ; there are no facts or cir- 
cumstances from which a trust can be implied. The right of the 
military body in affiliation with the corps to use the armory is 
wholly dependent upon the rights which its individual members 
may have as active members of the corporation, and not at all upon 
any supposed trust relationship which they as a body sustain to 
the corporation. 

It follows as a corollary that the four companies, in whose be- 
half this suit has been brought, have, as companies, no right to 
use or occupy the armory except by permission of the Infantry 
Corps of State Fencibles, the corporation lessee of the premises. 

In conclusion upon the whole case, I am of opinion that the 
evidence does not show that any rights, either of the individuals, 
who are the nominal plaintiffs, or of the four companies, who are 
the virtual plaintiffs in this suit, have been infringed or are 
threatened with infringement, nor does it disclose any facts or 
circumstances which call for the interference of the chancellor; 
it follows that the prayer for injimctions and a decree should 
be refused, and the bill dismissed with costs. 

A decree proper for the decision of the cause in accordance with 
the foregoing findings is attached hereto, and will be entered by 
the prothonotary forthwith, in accordance with the rules of equity 
practice. 

The Battalion began their regular drills which had been dis- 
continued during the occupancy of the Armory by the Sixth Regi- 
ment companies, as it was the desire of the Commanding Officer to 
avoid any collision, pending the decision of the court. Shortly 
after the decision was rendered dismissing their petition, counsel 
appealed and appeared before the three Judges sitting in equity 
and argued for the setting aside of the decision. After hearing 



1901 TROUBLE AT ARMORY 



367 



the ar^ments the court dismissed the petition and the decision of 
the court affirmed. 

At the regular meeting of the lioard of Directors. October 18th, 
a resolution was offered and passed, notifying Companies E, K, 
L, M, of the Sixth Regiment who had been occupying the Armory 
since May 1st, 1900, to remove all state property therefrom within 
ten days. The several captains were duly served with the above 
notice on the same evening. Also a motion was made and passed 
for the superintendent to notify Major Lumb that hereafter the 
privileges of the Armory would be denied him, that he be excluded 
therefrom. He was personally notified on the same evening. In 
the interval Major Lumb ordered his Battalion to assemble at the 
Armory for drill, it being considered unwise to allow the assembling 
of this Battalion in the Armory, notice was sent that they would 
not be permitted to assemble in a body, but the separate companies 
would be given a separate night on which to remove their state 
property. Every precaution was taken by the officers to prevent 
the removal of any portion of the property of the Battalion. By 
request of the commanding officer Lieutenant Eagen of the 6th 
Police District, kindly furnished a detail to prevent any disorder 
or lawless actions. In a few days after having vacated. Captain 
Dagit replevined the property in Company D room. The case be- 
ing brought into court and the Corporation made the defendant, 
a verdict was rendered in favor of the Corporation. This Battalion 
of the 6th Regiment had occupied the Armory for 16 months and 
had received the annual appropriation from the city of $500 a 
company, and were also allowed annually $500 a company from 
the state, $200 a company annually for Armory rent, and they 
refused to appropriate a dollar for repairs, running expenses, 
or use of the Armory. The Battalion bore the whole expense for 
its maintenance, the 6th Regiment using the Armory without it 
costing them one dollar. 

In January, 1902, the counsel for the Sixth Regiment companies 
appeared before Judge IMclMichael with a petition to grant a Char- 
ter under the name of State Fencibles Battalion. The same was 
referred to Col. Wendel P. Bowman as Master. 

On February 10th, the case was called. INIajor Lumb appeared 
as one of the incorporators and Colonel Dechert as counsel. Major 
Brazer, Major "Witherup, Lieutenant Berger, appeared for the Bat- 



368 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLIiS 1902 

talion accompanied by their counsel, Comrade Furth and George 
Graham, Esq. Major Lumb was placed upon the stand and sworn, 
after answering several questions of Colonel Dechert's he was 
turned over to IMr. Graham for cross-examination. 

Are you a citizen? Yes, sir. 

Where were you born? London, England. 

Were you naturalized? No, sir. 

How did you become a citizen? The witness refused to answer. 

This halted the granting of a Charter, and prevented them from 
using the name of the Fencibles. 

On May 26th, occurred the 89th anniversary of the Battalion. 
The occasion was celebrated by a parade on Saturday afternoon, 
the 24th, in its scarlet uniforms with full ranks. They were es- 
corted by the Old Guard under the command of Major Witherup, 
in their new uniforms. The Battalion was accompanied by their 
newly organized band of 40 pieces, under the leadership of Prof. 
Henry Klotz. In the evening the companies enjoyed their social 
gatherings in the Armory. 

On May 30th, Decoration Day, the usual tribute to the memory 
of Maj. John W. Ryan was deposited on his grave in Woodland 
Cemetery, by the officers of the Battalion. 

The following is a report of the Supreme Court on an appeal 
from the decisicm of Court No. 8, in the matter of the Armory: 

MiHLBAUER, Appellant, v. Infantry Battalion of State Fen- 
cibles. 

(Vol. 205, Penna. State Reports, page 180, &c.) 

Corporations — Unincorporated Association — Lease. 

Where the membership and the purposes of an incorporated civil 
body and an unincorporated military body were nearly identical, 
and their names confused, and a lease was made by a municipality 
to the corporation, which was executed on the part of the lessee 
by the president and secretary of the corporation, and sealed with 
the corporate seal, the lease will be sustained in favor of the 
corporation, after the unincorporated military body had been 
attached to a regiment of the National Guards of Pennsylvania. 

Argued Jan. 8, 1903. Appeal, No. 110, Jan. T., 1903, by plain- 
tiffs, from decree of C. P. No. 3, Phila. Co., Dec. T., 1900, No. 
918, on bill in equity in case of J. Harry Mihlbauer et al. v. In- 
fantry Corps of State Fencibles et al. Before Mitchell, Dean, 
Fell, Brown, Mestrezat and Potter, JJ. Affirmed. 



1903 OPINION OF THE SUPREME COURT 369 

Bill in equity for an injunction. 

Error assigned was the decree of the court dismissing the hill. 

Leoni Melick, of Melick, Potter & Dechert, with him Samuel 
F. Clevenger, for appellants. 

Emanuel Furtli, with him Jacob Singer and George S. Graham, 
for appellees. 

Opinion by Mr. Justice Fell, March 23, 1903: 

The bill in this case was filed by the captains of four companies 
that now constitute the Third Battalion of the Sixth R<?giment, 
National Guards of Pennsylvania, to establish the right of the 
battalion to the exclusive possession of the armory leased by the 
City of Philadelphia. The lease was made in 1884 to "The In- 
fantry Corps of State Fencibles, National Guard of Pennsylvania, 
a body corporate of the State of Pennsylvania." The corporation 
was chartered in 1876 for the purpose of aiding and benefitting its 
members, of securing their proficiency in military science, and 
for social enjoyment. Most of its members were members also of 
an independent military company which was originally formed in 
1813, but all of them were not. Three additional companies were 
recruited in 1878, and a battalion formed which was known as 
the Infantry Battalion of State Fencibles. From that time the 
management of the civil and military bodies was practically in 
the same hands and the word ' ' battalion ' ' was substituted for 
"corps" in speaking of the corporation. The finding of fact is 
that "there was not only a confusion of the names of the two bod- 
ies, but a confounding of their identity, so that the field, staff, non- 
commissioned staff, and company officers of the military body, 
under the designation of Board of Officers of the State Fencibles 
Battalion, assumed to act as the corporate body, enacted by-laws, 
elected officers, held meetings and generally conducted the business 
of the corporation. ' ' As the memberships and interests of the two 
bodies were nearly identical, there was no occasion to distinguish 
them until in 1900, when the four companies were assigned to the 
Sixth Regiment. The order assigning these companies did not 
include the commanding officer of the battalion and his staff. 
These officers, with some of the company officers who resigned 
after the transfer, formed new companies, and thus there became 
two bodies with antagonistic interests each claiming the right of 
possession of the armory. 

The ordinance of Councils authorizing the lease was passed in 
1883, at which time the civil and military bodies were both known 
as the battaUon. It directed a lease to be made to "The In- 
fantry Battalion of State Fencibles, National Guard of Pennsyl- 
vania." The lease was in fact made to "The Infantry Corps 
of State Fencibles of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, a 
24 



370 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1903 

body corporate of the State of Pennsylvania. ' ' Apparently this 
change was made by the City Solicitor when he drew the lease. 
The lease was executed on the part of the lessee by the president 
and secretary of the corporation, and was sealed with the corporate 
seal. These officers were also officers of the battalion, but they 
executed the lease in their official capacity as officers of the cor- 
poration, thus clearly drawing the distinction between the two 
bodies and designating the one which was to become the lessee. 
The city for eighteen years has recognized the validity of the 
lease, and on application has refused to terminate it, and to 
authorize a new lease to the four companies. These facts and 
others established at the hearing fully sustain the finding of the 
court that the intention was to lease to the incorporated civil body, 
and not the unincorporated military body. This finding is conclu- 
sive of the rights of the parties. 

The decree is affirmed at the cost of the appellant. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

1904—1909. 

ORDINANCE OP 1904 NEW UNIFORMS — NINETY-SECOND ANNIVERSARY 

— ENTRY OF TACONY RIFLES AS COMPANY D — CAMP AT NEW HOPE 

—THE REORGANIZATION OF THE BAND CAMPS AT SEA ISLE CITY 

1908 AND 1909. 

In December, 1904, the Citj^ passed an ordinance appropriating 
to each of the four companies of the State Fencibles the sum of 
$500. The following is a copy of the ordinance: 

Item 29. For the support and maintenance of companies of 
the National Guard and bands of the First, Se^-ond, Third and 
Sixth Regiments, two companies of the Naval Battalion and four 
companies of the Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, using and 
occupying Armory rooms or quarters within the City of Philadel- 
phia, five hundred (500) iiollars for each company and band, 
twenty-six thousand five hundred (26,500) dollars. Provided, 
That the City Controller shall countersign no warrants drawn in 
this item in favor of the Commanding Officer of any company, 
unless it shall be certified to the City Controller, by the Adjutant 
General of the State, that the said company has satisfactorily 
passed the annual inspection provided by law: Provided, however. 
That in the ease of the companies of the Infantry Battalion State 
Fencibles, the City Controller is authorized to accept the certificate 
of the Director of the Department of Public Safety, and also 
certified by the Commanding Officer of each company, that the 
moneys appi'opriated in said item for said company have been used 
and expended solely and exclusively for the support and mainte- 
nance, discipline and training of said company, for which he shall 
account by proper vouchers to the said City Controller: Provided, 
also, That no appropriation shall be made for any subsequent 
year until the expenditures of the previous year have been duly 
and satisfactorily accounted for. 

January 5th, 1905, the Board of Officers adopted the new United 
States regulation olive drab uniform and accordingly a contract 
was made with Horstmann & Co., of Philadelphia, to uniform the 
entire Battalion. On the 23rd, a consignment of Springfield rifles 
arrived and they were at once distributed to the several companies. 

371 



ri72 ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLF:S 1905 

The Battalion had .surrendered at the date of its withdrawal from 
the National Guard all rifles and State property; it became nec- 
essary after the Supreme Court had decided that it was a legal 
organization entitled to all rights and privileges granted in its 
Charter, to secure new arms. 

On March 26th, occurred the death of Lieut. John Jackson, a 
good, loyal and faithful Fencible. 

The 92nd Anniversary was fast approaching and the officers and 
men being so elated over their recent victory before the Supreme 
Court and the restoration of the Command to its rights and privi- 
leges, except state service, they decided for the first time to appear 
on Anniversary parade in their service uniforms. After consider- 
able debate, it was decided that a Fencible parade without the red 
coat, c(mld only be likened unto a circus without its pink lemonade; 
therefore they resolved to follow the precedent long established 
and on May 27th, the citizens of Philadelphia again saw its time 
honored organization with its shakos, red coats and white trousers. 

Following the Anniversary parade, Capt. C. E. R. Edmonds and 
Lieut. William White, at their own request, were relieved from duty 
in Company D. Negotiations were opened with Capt. Joseph Gra- 
ham, commanding an independent company known as the Tacony 
Rifles, with a view to attaching the same to the Fencibles. The 
Tacony Rifles was the only independent company organized and 
equipped by citizens of Philadelphia for the Spanish- American War. 
When the call was made and regiment after regiment left the 
City, it became apparent that it was necessary to organize a reserve 
to meet the demand on a second call. The military enthusiasm 
ran high in Northeast Philadelphia, centering at Tacony. A call 
was sent forth by Dr. Elmer E. Keiser for volunteers to organize 
a company to be known as the Tacony Rifles, and on June 7th, 
eighty-seven men met in Music Hall, Tacony, and elected the fol- 
lowing officers: Captain, Joseph Graham; 1st Lieutenant, Elmer E. 
Keiser ; 2nd Lieutenant, Thomas S. Lanard. Through the efforts 
of Col. E. DeV. Morrell guns were secured, while William IMiller 
and Samuel Disston attended to the tentage; and Lieut. William 
Dungan, Sergts. Daniel W. Lanard and Ilarvey Atkinson of the 
27th District Police, materially assisted in bringing th(; flcld outfit 
up to the required standard. It was soon apparent that there were 



1905 ENTRY OF TACONY RIFLKS 373 

more troops in tlio field tluni nocdcd. so the Tacony Rifles failvd to 
secure an opportunity to show military spirit dc corps. 

In 1899, the Rifles camped at Dunk's Ferry and in 1900, tendered 
their services to the Government for the Boxers' outbreak in China. 
No volunteers being accepted they were again doomed to disa})- 
pointment. In the summer of 1900. the Rifles held its annual en- 
campment at Gettys])urg. 1901 at Pottstown, 1902 AVheatsheaf. 190:^ 
Dunk's Ferry, 1904 Stroudsburg, JMonroe county, and prepara- 
tions were under way to return to Stroudsburg in 1905 when the 
arrangements were completed and the entire membership of the 
Rifles entered Company D, State Fencibles, June 7th, 1905. An 
election was then ordered for officers which resulted as follows: 
Captain, Joseph Graham ; 1st Lieutenant, Thomas S. Lanard ; 2nd 
Lieutenant, Joseph L. Dunn. At this time the several companies of 
the Fencibles were going into camp as separate companies and in 
accordance with the custom Company D, in 1905 returned to 
Stroudsburg, Monroe county. 

In October the Fencibles opened the fall term with a smoker on 
the 3rd, followed by several basket ball games. 

On April 26th, 1906, occurred the annual inspection at the 
Armory by Lieut. William Mills, Captain Callahan and others. 

On May 27th, was the celebration of the 93rd anniversary of the 
Battalion, when the four companies paraded with thirty-six men 
to a Company, Band, Old Guard, and Drum Corps. On the 30th, 
Companies D and C took part in the Memorial Day celebration at 
Tacony. 

In July, the several companies went into camp as separate com- 
panies at New Hope, Cross Roads, and College Park. During the 
fall, active preparations were begun to go into camp, the following 
summer as a Battalion. This meant work and the raising of con- 
siderable money; the annual appropriation received from the City 
of Philadelphia was not available for this purpose, and the entire 
amount had to be raised by the members of the Battalion. 

In December of this year, an improvement was made in the 
Armory by the laying of a hard wood floor, at the cost of about 
$1,000. 

In the early part of January, 1907, a communication was re- 
ceived from A. Weder, a citizen of Philadelphia, stating that he 
was desirous of presenting to the Fencibles two pictures which were 



374 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1907 

at one time the property of General Loud, who was in command at 
Pittsburgh in 1877. The Art committee later received them and 
they were hung in the rotunda of the Armory. It was about this 
time that the sanitary cleaning companies came into service in 
the City of Philadelphia and the Fencibles, being always abreast 
with the times, had the entire Armory cleaned from dome to pit 
by the new process. 

During the month of March, a communication was received 
from the Nashville Grays, who had recently completed and were 
about to dedicate a new Armory, requesting a picture of the State 
Fencibles to be hung in the New Military Club, and accordingly, 
the Commanding Officer ordered a picture sent to them. 

On April 2nd, occurred one of the largest social events held at 
the Armory in recent years; this being the euchre and dance by 
the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Old Guard. Like all the social func- 
tions of the Fencibles. it proved to be a grand success 

In May. the committee on camp arrangements reported having 
selected a site for Battalion camp at Bridge Point near Doylestown ; 
but owing to the large outlay of money necessary to bring the 
Battalion equipment up to the proper standard and the enormous 
cost for transportation, music, subsistence, &c., it was deemed neces- 
sary to abandon the proposed encampment and the several com- 
panies went into camp as separate companies as in former years. 

May 16th, occurred the annual inspection, and at a meeting fol- 
lowing the inspection it was decided to make a change in the 
head dress by substituting black straps for the scales on the bear- 
skin shakos. These straps were used until prior to the Atlanta trip 
in 1911, when the Command again adopted the scales. 

At the Anniversary parade on May 25th, the Battalion paraded 
for the first time, in many years the hospital ambulance, which 
was presented to the Command during the encampment at Nes- 
haminy Falls, 3897. 

The custom which had been established after the death of Maj. 
John W. Ryan for the officers to visit his grave and place thereon 
a wreath, had never been forgotten, and through all the trying days 
of reconstruction, when the enemies of the Fencibles "covered the 
fields like locusts", some of the officers always found time to carry 
a floral WTeath and lay it on the grave of him, who had done so 



1907 REORGANIZATION OF BAND 375 

much to make the name of the State Fencible, a house word, rep- 
resenting tlie highest type of citizen soldiery. 

In June 1907, a complete reorganization of the band took place, 
under the leadership of Daniel W. Lanard, Jr. The Fencibles have 
always been fortimate in having a good band master. Starting 
with the celebrated Frank Johnson in 1821, the Band has had 
some well-known musicians at its head — Samuel Kendal. Henry 
Beck, Benj. ]\IcClurg, Lewis Isaac, and others. During the cele- 
bration at Atlanta in 1911, the newspapers of the South gave the 
Fencibles' Band some prominent mention. 

Atlanta Journal. — "One of the largest bands in the parade." 
The Journal, Spartansburg. — "When the band played 'Dixie' a 
mighty shout from hundreds of throats rent the air. ' ' 

Charlotte Daily Observer. — "A marked evidence of the unusual 
spirit of the Fencibles was their action as they passed the home 
of Mrs. Stonewall Jackson. * * » Lined up in front of the 
residence * * * the band played 'Dixie' and 'The Star 
Spangled Banner'." 

The Chronicle. — "Their band is a crack organization." 
Danville llegister. — "When the band played 'Dixie' the Fenci- 
bles had an opportunity to hear a real rebel yell. ' ' 

The following was overheard concerning the band while return- 
ing from Atlanta: 

"Let me tell you, there's some class to that band, even if they 
do hail from Philadelphia. They sure can play 'Dixie.' " 

' ' Well they can play other things. What 's the matter with 
that 'Silver Threads' and 'Alexander's Rag Time Band'?" 

' ' They 's all right ; but man, I 'd rather hear a band play 
'Dixie' than 'The Star Spangled Banner.' " 

In August occurred the meeting of the Grand Conclave of the 
Order of Elks. During this celebration the Fencibles tendered the 
use of their Armory, without charge to No. 2, Lodge B. P. 0. E. 

On Tuesday, April 21st, occurred the death of Sergeant INIajor 
James C. Stimmel. 

Headquarter-s 

Infantry Battalion State Fencibles. 

Armory, Broad and Race Street.s. 

Philadelphia, April 23, 1908. 
General Order No. 10. 

The Commanding Officers announce the death, on Tuesday even- 
ing, 21st inst., of Sergeant Major James C. Stimmel. 



376 ^NE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1908 

In the death of this ever faithful and loyal member of the State 
Fencibles, the Command has sustained a severe loss, for, during his 
long term of service, he had by his devotion to duty, his enthusiasm 
for the maintenance of the time-honored Command, and his manly 
and courageous action upon many occasions while in the service 
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, endeared himself to the 
hearts of his comrades, and the many friends of the organization. 

At the age of 21, he enlisted in the old Company of State Fen- 
cibles, under the command of Capt. James Page, and remained 
with it until the Battalion was formed in 1878, at which time he 
was promoted by Maj. John W. Ryan to be Sergeant, and assigned 
to Company D. In 1880, he was appointed Sergeant-Major and 
continued in that capacity until his death. 

He participated in all the prominent events in the history of 
the State Fencibles from 1871 down to the present time, and was 
regarded as a zealous and efficient soldier. 

As a mark of respect, the flag over the Armory will be at half- 
staff until after the funeral, anu as a further evidence of the es- 
teem in which he was held by the command. Company D, Capt. 
Joseph L. Dunn, is hereby detailed as an escort to the funeral, 
which takes place from his late residence, 1815 West Huntington 
Street, on Saturday, 25th inst., at 2 o'clock p. m. 

By order of Major Brazer. 

Thomas S. Lanard, 
Captain and Adjutant. 

Philadelphia, April 23, 1908. 
General Order No. 11. 

The funeral of the late Sergeant James C. Stimmel, Battalion 
Quartermaster, will take place from his late residence, 1815 West 
Huntington Street, Philadelphia, Saturday, April 25th, at 2.30 
o 'clock. 

Company D, is hereby detailed to act as escort. 
The band will report to Commanding Officer (company D, at the 
Armory, at 1.30 o'clock. 

Uniform for Company, Olive Drab (white gloves). 
Uniform for Band, Dress v^ed coats). 

The Adjutant will forward to the Commanding Officer of Com- 
pany D, all necessary detail instructions. 

By order of Major Brazer. 

Thomas S. Lanard, 
Captain and Adjutant. 
Orders No. 11^^. 

Permission is herby granted to the members of the several 
companies to parade with Company D, on Saturday, April 25th, 

1908. 

By order of Major Brazer. 

Thomas S. Lanard, 

Captain and Adjutant. 



1908 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 377 

Maj. Thurber T. Brazer having been elected as a representative 
in Select Councils from tlie 42n(l Wai-d, took his seat on April Hth. 
Many ofificers of the Battalion were present and presented him with 
a large floral State Feneibles Corps mark standing about five feet 
high. 

The inspection in May and the Anniversary parade on the 23rd 
were the first affairs of any note in the year 1908. 

The first Battalion encampment, since the close of the Spanish- 
American War, was held at Sea Isle City, from August 1st to 8th. 

Through the courtesy of the citizens of Sea Isle City, the Bat- 
talion secured a beautiful tract of land south of the City of Sea 
Isle, New Jersey, where for three successive years held its en- 
campments. While in the field the Battalion was inspected each 
year, by the Director of the Department of Public Safety, Henry 
Clay. 

Headquarters 

Infantry Battalion State Fencibles. 

Armory, Broad and Eace Streets. 

Philadelphia, July 14th, 1908. 
Orders No. 18. 

I. The several companies of this command will assemble at the 
Armory in service uniform (olive drab caps will be worn), on 
Saturday, August 1st, at 1.30 o'clock P. M., for the purpose of 
performing a tour of camp duty at Sea Isle City, N. J. 

II. Staff officers will report dismounted during this tour of 
duty. 

III. Campaign hats and khaki uniforms will be issued on ar- 
rival of command at Sea Isle City. 

IV. Each man will provide himself with at least one change 
of underclothing^ white duck pants, soap, towel, comb and brush, 
clothes brush, 3 pairs white gloves. Black shoes will be worn 
during this tour of duty. 

V. Band and field music will report to the Adjutant at 1.20 
o'clock P. M., Saturday, August 1st. 

VI. First Lieut. Eobert Shoch, Company D, and three men 
from each company are hereby detailed as a camping party, and 
will report at the Armory on Tuesday morning, seven o'clock, 
July 28th, and upon their arrival at Sea Isle City will proceed to 
erect the camp. 

VII. The Quartermaster will make such arrangements as are 
necessary as to have three days' cooked rations issued to the 
detail. 

VIII. Morning reports must be at these headquarters not later 
than 7 P. M. 



378 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1908 

IX. The usual Sunday morning inspection will be made August 
2nd at 10 o'clock. 

X. Officers' baggage and Company stores will be at the Armory 
not later than Monday evening, 27th inst. 

XI. Company commanders will have ready all company books, 
enlistment papers, and have their inspection and muster ready 
for inspection, the date of which to be hereafter announced. 

XII. The men will keep their hair short and beard neatly 
trimmed; soiled clothes wiU be kept in an appropriate part of 
their clothing bag. No articles of any kind will be put under 
the bedding. Arms and equipments will at all times be kept 
clean and the leggings and belt in order. 

XIII. Divine services will be held on Sunday, August 2nd, at 
11 o'clock A. M. 

XIV. The following routine is hereby announced and will be 
strictly observed: 

First Call (5 minutes before reveille) .... 5.25 A. M. 

Reveille (one gun) 5.30 

Exercises 5.45 

Recall 6.15 

Sick Call 6.20 

Mess Call (Breakfast) 6.30 

Fatigue Call 7.30 

Guard Mounting 8.00 

Drill 8.30 

Recall 10.00 

Mess Call (Dinner) 12.00 Noon. 

Evening Parade 5.30 P. M. 

Mess Call (Supper) 6.30 

Retreat (Sunset) 

Tattoo 9.00 

Taps 10.30 

Roll Call at Reveille and Tattoo. 

XV. As this encampment is for the purpose of instruction, it 
is expected that every member of the Battalion will be present. 

By order of Major Brazer. 

Thomas S. Lanard, 
Captain and Adjutant. 

The North American said of this encampment: 

Headed by a band and flying flags, the four companies of State 
Fencibles, under the command of Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, marched 
from the armory, Broad Street, below Race, to the Chestnut Street 
ferries, where they embarked for Sea Isle City, the scene of this 
year's encampment. 

The men were attired in the new regulation olive-drab uniform. 

Upon their arrival at Sea Isle City a reception was tendered 



1908 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 379 

the FcDcibles by the American Guards, of Sea Isle City, and the 
Sea Isle City Yacht Club. Later the camp, which was nanie<l 
for Hartnian Kuhn, a former captain, was pitched in the south- 
ern section of the city, A review of the Fencibles by Director 
Clay will take place Thursday. 

The following officers are associated with Major Brazer: Adju- 
tant, Captain Thomas S. Lanard; battalion quartermaster, Cap- 
tain Edward E. Packer; battalion commissary, Captain A. II. 
Burton; surgeon, Frank N. Greene. 

The following incident occurred while in camp, of which the 
Evening Bulletin said : 

Sea Isle City, N. J., Aug. 7. 

Kobert Drouet^ actor and playwright, is today the hero of 
Sea Isle City, and especially loud in his praise are the State Fen- 
cibles encamped here. By his valiant efforts yesterday he prob- 
ably saved from drowning several officers of the Philadelphia 
military organization. ' 

As the guests of the Sea Isle City Yacht Club, the officers of the 
Fencibles were yesterday afternoon taken in motor boats for a 
spin in the bay. Four boats formed the fleet. They were the 
Athalia, carrying Captain E. A. Steelman, Commodore Edward 
A. Wells, of the yacht club; Captains Packer, Burton, Graham 
and Hospital Steward Glass; the Sunshine, having for its 
passengers Captain J. A. Crabtree, E. A. Van Fleet and others; 
the Alfred S., carrying Capt. Herman C. Strickler and various 
members of the Fencibles and yacht club, and the Emily E., upon 
which were Franz Ehrlich, Jr., the vice-commodore of the yacht 
club; Eobert Drouet, Major Brazer, Surgeon Frank N. Greene and 
Adjutant Thomas S. Lanard. 

The boats had gone as far as Townseud 's Inlet when the storm 
broke. The wind blew with violence, and the waves became high. 
Directly in the path of the Athalia was a ledge of roeks_ a death 
trap, where several lives have been lost. 

The warning to the pilot of the Athalia came too late. With 
a crash the little craft struck the rocks. The wind and waves 
then tossed the Alfred S. upon the ledge, and the Sunshine, in 
giving assistance, followed suit. 

Drouet, who was at the steering wheel of the Emily E., deter- 
mined to attempt a rescue himself. The men in the trapped 
motor boats, which might have been swamped at any minute, 
were keeping their positions with the greatest difficulty, and im- 
mediate action was necessary. So the actor announced that he 
would swim to the boats with a rope, and with one end at- 
tached to the Emily E., have them towed from the rocks. 

Major Brazer hunted about the cabin until he found a cable. 
Drouet fastened one end of it to the stern of his own boat, 



380 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1908 

tied the other about his waist and began his swim. After a 
heart-breaking struggle with the waves, he reached the Sunshine 
and attached the cable. With ease the little motor boat was 
dragged from her dangerous position. 

But Drouet 's work was not done. Not until he had repeated his 
performance twice, and the Alfred S. and the Athalia were freed, 
did his labors end. He then swam back to the Emily E. and 
was so weak when he reached her side that he had to be dragged 
on board. 

When the storm was over the little fleet returned to Sea Isle 
City. Drouet was dined by Major Brazer last night, and was 
also made an honorary member of the Yacht Club. 

Last night 's storm delayed the dress parade, which was viewed 
by Director Clay of Philadelphia^ and his assistant, James B. 
Sheehan. The encampment here will be broken to-morrow. 

The New York Sun said of this incident: 

Ska Isle City, N. J., Aug. 6. — Through the efforts of Eobert 
Drouet, the actor and playwright, the encampment of the State 
Fencibles at Sea Isle, was saved from being ended tragically 
late last night. 

The officers of the Fencibles had been invited to take a trip 
in motor boats in the bay back of Sea Isle City late yesterday 
afternoon. When a storm came up about four o 'clock three of 
the boats floated helplessly in the bay, banging against a ledge 
of rocks. The four boats were the Athalia, the Sunshine, the 
Alfred S., and the Emily E. All were filled with officers. 

The first three piled up on the rocks at the first blow. Every 
man seemed to be in danger of death. Major Thurber T. Brazer 
and Vice-Commodore Ehrlich found a rope in the cabin of the 
Emily E. Drouet, took one end of it and announced that he was 
going to swim with it to the Sunshine. The others tried to point 
out the danger, but Drouet was determined. He was in the water 
in a minute, the rope between his teeth, swimming for the Sun- 
shine. 

Once on board the trapped boat, the Sunshine was drawn ofl the 
reef by the Emily E. with little difficulty. But Drouet had to 
take the swim twice more to get the other boats off. When the 
storm subsided the fleet made its way back to town. 

Today Drouet was elected an honorary member of the yacht 
club. 

The Phila. Record said of this Camp : 

Sea Isle City. — The military hop and reception to Major 
Thurber T. Brazer and officers, to-night, Avas the event of the 
State Fencible encampment, if not the event of the season^ at 
this resort. The spacious room was handsomely decorated in true 
military style, and to the music of the Fencibles' Band, the lads 



1908 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 381 

ami their ladies whirled through a program of 20 numbers. The 
grand march was especially impressive, the gay-colored gowns of 
the ladies, contrasting to the sombre uniforms of the soldier boys, 
who were attired in white duck trousers, olive coats and white 
gloves and belts. 

The committee consisted of Captain F. N. Greene, chairman; 
Captain John D. Garcia, Company A; Captain Edward L. L;(ii- 
neau, Company B; Captain Edward J. Prittie, Company C; Cap- 
tain Joseph L. Dunn, Company D, with Captain Thomas S. Lanard, 
the Adjutant, presenting. 

Last evening the band gave an enjoyalile concert in front of 
battalion headquarters, and this concert will be repeated each 
evening at 7.30. To-morrow evening the Ladies' Auxiliary of 
Company B, will be entertained at mess, and later in the evening 
the same company will have a tea party in the mess tent. 

This afternoon, Major Brazer and Staff were guests of furnier 
Senator J. J. Coyle in an enjoyable automobile tour of the sur- 
rounding country. Wednesday afternoon the Sea Isle City Yacht 
Club will have as their guests the line and staff officers on a 
cruise. 

The general health of the boys is excellent. "Come around 
at mess time," says Dr. Greene, of the hospital staff ^ "and you 
will know the reason why." 

While in camp the following letter was received : 

Office of the Director. 

July 29th, 1908. 
Captain Thomas S. Lanard, 

Adjutant of Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, 
Sea Isle City, N. J. 
Sir: 

In accordance with our conversation of yesterday, I am sending 
you a letter stating, what I hope the State Fencibles may be able 
to do in connection with the Historical Pageant. 

It is our desire to have a section in the procession to illustrate 
Philadelphia 's part in the War of 1812. It is not quite deter- 
mined what form this will take, but, in any event, we wish the 
Fencibles to have the leading place in it. There should be, as 
you suggested, exactly that number of men which the organization 
sent off to the war in 1812, completely officered. 

It would be very pleasing to us, and at the same time might 
be more satisfactory to you, if you were able to have your original 
uniform made directly at your own expense. However, if this is 
impossible, we shall try to look after the matter here through 
our costumers. If you will send me the necessary plates or sam- 
ples of the uniform of the First State Fencibles, I shall take pleas- 
ure in having estimates secured to ascertain the cost of reproduc- 
ing them. This would necessarily be in cheap but perfectly 
good and suitable material. The main point for one occasion 



382 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1908 

would be the proper colors and patterns and those we can secure 
at no very large expense. 

Hoping that you will secure the names and approximate 
measurement of enough of your men to make this display and 
that I may hear from you soon, I beg to remain, 

Very truly yours, 

Ellis Paxson Oberholtzer, 

Director of the Pageant. 

In October of Founder's Week celebration, the 225th anniver- 
sary celebration of the City of Philadelphia, at which time the 
police, fire and official parade, was held together with the State 
Fencibles, on Tuesday, October 6th, 1908. 

Special Order No. 1. Philadelphia, October 2, 1908. 

I. The bandmasters of all the bands in the various divisions, 
will report to Assistant Grand Marshal William B. Smith, at the 
intersection of Broad and Berks Streets, Tuesday, October 6th, at 
1.30 p. m. sharp. 

II. The bands will form in mass facing to the east, and give 
their attention to Director Bergey, who will be situated on the 
balcony in front of Temple Baptist Church, in order that he may 
see and be seen by all the musicians. 

III. Each band will be prepared to play the ' ' Star Spangled 
Banner" through. If it is desired to play further, the se- 
lection given will be ' ' Auld Lang Syne. ' ' 

IV. The greatest promptitude will be expected in this formation 
and dismissal, as the column must move at 2.00 o'clock p. m. 

V. Aides and division marshals will assist in the prompt exe- 
cution of this order. 

By order of Henry Clay^ Grand Marshal. 
William B. Smith, Asst. Grand Marshal. 
Official : 

S. W. EOOP, Secretary. 

Philadelphia, Sept. 30, 1908. 
General Order No. 4. 

Sixth Division. 

Division Marshal, Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Commanding. 
State Fencible Band and Field Music 
D. W. Lanard, Jr., Leader. 
Old Guard, Infantry Corps, State Fencibles. 
Commander, Maj. Eobert P. SchelUnger. 
Senior Vice Commander Junior Vice Commander 

Capt. Emanuel Furth Lieut. H. W. McFassell 

Adjutant, Capt. Fred. W. Lawrence 
Quartermaster Commissary 

Lieut. George H. Euth Lieut. Jacob Bieg 

Paymaster Surgeon 

Capt. John H. Benner Lieut. George 0. Wetherbee 



1908 POLICE AND FIREMAN'S PARADE 333 

Escort to the Infantry Battalion State Fencibi>es. 
Commandant, Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, 
Adjutant, Capt. Thomas S. Lanard, 
Quartermaster, Capt. Edward E. Packer, 
Commissary, Capt. A. 11. Burton, 
Surgeon, Capt. Frank N. Greene, 
Chaplain, Capt. H. A. F. Hoyt, 
Ordnance Officer, Capt. Joseph Graham, 
Paymaster, Capt. Wm. E. Sharps, 
Inspector Rifle Practice, Capt. Wm. B. Scott, 

Non-Commissioned Staff. 
Sergeant Major, H. Stanley Ellis, 
Sergeant Daniel W. Lanard, Jr., Chief Musician. 
Quartermaster Sergeant, Wm. H. Hinkle, 
Commissary Sergeant, Chas. H. Merkle, 
Color Sergeant, George Barbier, 
Hospital Steward, F. Wilson Glass, 
Company A, Capt. John D. Garcia, 
Company B, Capt. Edward L. Lanneau, 
Company C, Capt. Edwin J. Prittie, 
Company D, Capt. Joseph L. Dunn, 

Acting as an Escort to the Surviving Veterans of the Sev- 
enty-second Regiment Penna. Volunteers, 

KNOWN AS the 

Philadelphia Fire Zouaves. 

President, Frank A. Rementer, Secretary, Wm. Prior. 

Survivors in Conveyances, with the old Colors of the Regiment, 

Presented by the 

Philadelphia Fire Department in 1861. 

Philadelphia, September 26th, 1908. 
Police, Fire and Official Parade. 
Tuesday, October 6th, 1908. 
General Order No. 2. 

I. The following appointments are hereby announced for the 
parade on Tuesday, October 6th, proxo. They will be obeyed 
and respected accordingly: 

Hon. William B. Smith, 
Assistant Grand Marshal. 
Marshals' Aides. 
James B. Sheehan, Esq., Timothy O'Leary^ Esq., 

James F. McLaughlin, Esq., Alfred S. Eisenhower, Esq., 

Capt. Wm. C. Zane, Edwin Clark, Esq., 

John M. Lukens, John Lattimer, 

Wm. A. Patterson, Hubley R. Owen, M.D., 

St. Clair A. Mulholland, John Lamon, 

Gen. James Stewart, Jr., Frank Feeney, 

Samuel W. Roop. 



384 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1908 

II. The various divisions will be commanded as follows: 

Division Marshals. 

1st Division, State Police and Visiting Police — Maj. Thos. 
S. Martin. 

2nd Division, Philadelphia Police Department — Supt. John B. 
Taylor. 

3rd Division, Philadelphia Police Department and Detail of 
Park Guards, Capt. Wm. T. Little. 

4th Division, Philadelphia Police Department, Capt. Wm. L. 
Dungan. 

5th Division, Motor Wagons for Chiefs and Assistants and 
Motor Fire Fighting Apparatus — George Eiker. 

6th Division, Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, Old Guard 
State Fencibles, and Survivors of 72nd Eegt. Penna. Vol. (Phila. 
Fire Zouaves) — Maj. Thurber T. Brazer. 

7th Division, Detail of Philadelphia Fire Bureau— Chief En- 
gineer James C. Baxter, Jr. 

8th Division, Keystone Fire Chiefs' Association, Veteran Fire 
Associations and Volunteer Fire Organizations — Wm. F. Totten, 
Esq. 

9th Division, Veteran and Volunteer Fire Organizations and 
Companies- — William Allmendinger. 

10th Division, Philadelphia Letter Carriers, U. S. Post Office 
Department — Capt. George W. Durang. 

III. Mounts will be supplied to such aides as are to parade 
mounted, at Broad and Diamond Streets on the day of parade, at 
1 o'clock p. m., and will be surrendered on the dismissal of the 
parade at the Station House, 15th and Snyder Avenue. 

By order of the Grand Marshal, 

Henry Clay. 
William B. Smith, 
Assistant Grand Marshal. 
Approved : 

S. W. Eoop, Secretary. 

On October 6th, the Fencibles were represented in the Grand 
Pageant which was seen in Philadelphia ; they representing the 
original Company of 1813. 

Thanksgiving eve, a large reception and dance was held at the 
Armory. 

In December a contract was awarded to D. C. Humphries to paint 
the interior of the Armory. 

The evening of February 28th, 1909, the Battalion assembled in 
dress uniform to receive a beautiful stand of colors to be presented 
by the Ladies' Auxiliary of Company B. The presentation was 
made by Mrs. Edward Etchells, wife of one of the members of 



1909 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 385 

that Company, aud accepted on behalf of the Battalion by Capt. 
John D. Garcia, Company A. in the absence of IMajor Brazer. who 
was ill at home. The presentation was followed by a dance. 

April 15th, a vaudeville and dance was held at the Armory, and 
on the 28th, a smoker by Company A. 

On April 27th, the Board of Officers adopted a change in the 
officer's uniforms by adding the letters S. F. as collar ornaments 
which greatly improved the appearance of the service uniform. 

On Maj^ 22nd, the Annual inspection was held and on the 24th, 
the Battalion celebrated its 96th anniversary with a parade fol- 
lowed by a banquet. 

July 9th to 17th, the annual encampment was held at Sea Isle 
City, New^ Jersey. The Battalion left the City on the evening of 
the 9th at 8.30 o'clock, parading do^^^l Broad Street to Market, to 
Delaware Avenue, where they took the ferry for Camden, then via. 
the Reading R. R. to Sea Isle, where they were met by the Mayor 
and the citizens. Fire works, music and cheers greeted them on 
their arrival. The camp was located on the same site as 1908. 

The North American, Philadelphia, said: 

Sea Isle City, N. J., July 11. 

At the camp of the State Fencibles of Pennsylvania, today 
these sons of Mars were completely vanquished by a host of the 
daughters of Venus. Sweethearts, wives, sisters and girl friends 
stormed the camp by the sea, and at the first onslaught the de- 
fenders laid down their arms and capitulated. 

The attack was not unexpected by the young soldiers and for 
that reason they had given their camp such a cleaning up on 
Saturday as a camp seldom gets. Not a piece of paper or scrap 
of any other kind could be detected, and the general aspect pre- 
sented by the city of tents was one of almost painful precision 
and order. 

Notwithstanding the fatigue of having attended a ball at the 
Continental Hotel on Saturday night, the boys responded promptly 
as the first shrill notes of the reveille broke in on their wave- 
soothed slumbers. This occurred at early-bird time — 5.30 a. m. — 
and was followed by the raising of the colors which the Fencibles 
have followed in the ninety-six years of their existence as an or- 
ganization. After some physical exercises and a final cleaning up 
of the grounds, the recall was sounded. 

The first spectacular ceremony of the day took place at 8 
o'clock, when guard mounting took place. The movements were 
executed with much skill. 

25 



386 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1909 

After guard mounting came a period of freedom for all, except 
those assigned to patrol duty and kitchen work, the latter being 
largely performed by miscreants who had lingered outside the 
camp after leave had expired on the previous evening. The usual 
morning drill was dispensed with. So also was divine service, 
owing to the unavoidable absence of Chaplain Henry A. F. Hoyt, 
rector of St. John's Protestant Episcopal Church at Cynwyd. 

The evening drill was an inspiring spectacle. The evolutions 
were executed in a manner which would have excited no critcism 
had they been performed by regular troops. 

Camp Theodore Hesser is the name given the camp this year 
in honor of the gallant oflficer who commanded one company of the 
Fencibles in the Civil War. He was killed in the battle of Mine 
Eun, Va., towards the close of the great struggle. The Battalion 
will remain in camp until next Saturday. 

A military hop will be given by the Battalion tomorrow night 
• at the Excursion House, for which music will be furnished by the 
Fencibles' Band. All the officials of Sea Isle City have been in- 
vited to attend. 

On Wednesday evening Commodore Edward E. Wells_ of the 
Sea Isle City Yacht Club, will entertain Major Brazer and his 
staff at dinner. 

Mayor Eeyburn and Director Clay are expected to inspect the 
command on Thursday or Friday, and on the latter day the Old 
Guard of the State Fencibles has been invited to visit camp. 

A Sea Isle City newspaper said : 

For five days the most destructive battle in the history of na- 
tions has been fought at Sea Isle. The State Fencibles have been 
fighting every minute of the time and at this writing maintain 
an unbroken front, with many wounded but no dead. The enemy, 
however, have suffered; ten thousand have been slain, and the 
wounded beyond number, are scattered for miles across the 
meadows. Sea Isle will owe the valiant boys in khaki a debt of 
gratitude for the mosquitoes they have slain and for the million 
they must kill for their own safety. 

The soldier boys will laugh later over their Sea Isle frolics; 
they can't now, even their lips are blistered. 

The guard house at the camp is a lonesome place — so much for 
discipline. 

Last Saturday at the risk of his own life private F. A. New- 
burg of Co. A, went to the rescue of Sergeant Finscham, who while 
bathing near the Fencibles' camp had ventured out about two 
hundred yards from shore and became exhausted. Private New- 
burg, on guard duty at the time, heard the man's cries for help, 
and without discarding any of his clothing jumped into the water 
and swam to the perishing bather and succeeded in bringing him, 



1909 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 337 

in an unconscious state to the beach where members of the hospital 
corps were waiting with a stretcher. Prompt treatment soon re- 
vived Sergeant Finscham. Private Newburg was almost ex- 
hausted from his heroic efforts and was relieved from further 
duty for the day. 

Another pai:»er continuing said : 

Last Friday night when President of Council J. P. Delaney met 
the State Feneibles at the Reading Station he gave them Sea Isle 
City for ten days and amid volleys of musketry, martial music and 
red fires, the soldiers marched in and took possession, and the 
city set about arranging events to make their sojourn pleasant 
and to be remembered. The camp had been put in order by 
Quartermaster Packer and was in readiness for the boys when 
they arrived at near midnight, and 200 tired infantrymen tumbled 
into their cots and slept the first night in the camp by the sea. 

When the soldiers arrived their skin was as white and pink as 
a woman's, but not so now, for between the burning sun, and 
the mosquitoes, their arms and faces show every imaginable color 
from pink to black. 

The officers of the Feneibles who are in camp are as follows: 
Major Thurber T. Brazer, commanding. 

Staff officers. — Captain and adjutant, Thomas S. Lanard; cap- 
tain and quartermaster, Edward E. Packer; captain and commis- 
sary, H. A. Burton; captain and surgeon, Frank N. Greene; 
captain and ordnance officer, Joseph P. Graham. 

On Monday of this week Hon. J. J. Coyle took Maj. Thurber T. 
Brazer and his staff out for an enjoyable automobile ride, visiting 
Tuekahoe, Beasley's Point and Cape May. At the latter place a 
luncheon was served. 

At Beasley's Point the autoists visited Director Clay, of Phila- 
delphia, who has his summer residence at that delightful place. 
Director Clay promised to come over to Sea Isle during the Fenei- 
bles ' stay, and inspect the camp, and will endeavor to have Mayor 
Reyburn accompany him. 

On Wednesday, the Sea Isle City Yacht Club entertained at their 
Club House Major Brazer and staff of the State Feneibles; serv- 
ing refreshments and treating the officers to a cruise. 

Last night the Y'acht Club entertained Major Brazer and staff 
at dinner^ at the Bellevue. 

The soldier boys take to the ocean like ducks and it is rare 
sport to watch the army invade the surf. 

The boys go out daily for their sun blisters, as regularly as they 
answer the mess call. 

The automobile races scheduled for Fairmount Park in October, 
and being desirous of securing the best possible protection for 



388 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1909 

those who desired to witness the same, an invitation was issued by 
the Quaker City Auto Club to the State Pencibles, to assist in po- 
licing the course on October 9th. However, the Fencibles did 
mot have an opportunity to render any service as the city police de- 
partment agreed to furnish sufficient police and did not desire the 
interference or possible conflict of authority. 



CHAPTER XX. 
1910. 

CAUSE OP TROLLEY STRIKE — FENCIBLES CALLED INTO SERVICE — OLD 
GUARD RESOLUTIONS — LETTERS OF COMMENDATION ANNIVERSARY 
PARADE — CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY — SWORD PRESENTATION — COL. JOS. 
F. BURKE, OF ATLANTA, GA., ARRIVES — INVITATION TO VISIT ATLANTA. 

The year of 1910 opened with mnch civic and political unrest 
which reached a climax in the latter part of February. The Phila- 
delphia Rapid Transit Company had withdrawn from sale the six- 
for-a-qiiarter tickets, which caused considerable feeling against the 
management of the company. The employees also had several 
grievances, which they wanted adjusted. For considerable time 
this friction continued; open threats w^ere made and finally the 
demands of the emploj^ees being refused, this resulted in a street 
car strike. 

On February 21st, 1910. the following order was received by 
]Major Brazer: 

Sir: — In accordance with the ordinance of Councils, approved 
January 11, 1904, authorizing the lease of the City Armory, on 
Broad Street, below Eace Street, to the State Fencibles for the 
term of ten years, and providing that the said infantry corps 
shall, at all times, be subject to the direction and control of the 
Director of Public Safety in times of public riot, disturbances 
of emergency for police purposes, and in accordance with the 
lease executed with said organization on April 2_ 1904, wherein 
the lessee agrees, during its occupation of the demised premises, 
to provide a company or companies of uniformed, armed and 
disciplined men, who shall, at all times, be subject to the direction 
and control of the Director of Public Safety in times of public 
riot, disturbances, emergency for police purposes, you will, on 
receipt hereof, furnish me a complete roster of the men in your 
command, capable of and subject to the performance of said 
police duty. 

Yours respectfully, 

(Signed) Hekry Clay, 

Director. 
389 



390 <^NE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1910 

Traffic became obstructed and the strikers and their sympathizers 
threatened to do considerable damage to the company's plant. On 
the afternoon of February 21st, at 5.00 o'clock, orders were re- 
ceived to assemble the Battalion for duty at the earliest possible 
moment. Notwithstanding that all means of transportation from 
many points were entirely cut off, the Command, to the last man, 
reported for duty, and at midnight on the aforesaid day were 
mustered into service by His Honor, Mayor John E. Reyburn, 
and Director of Public Safety Henry Clay. 

The C6mmand was assigned, the following morning, to German- 
town and Lehigh avenues, where it remained until 5.00 o'clock on 
the evening of February 22nd. 

Some of the newspapers in sympathy with the striking element, 
resented the movement of calling into .service "armed men" and 
seeking for some effective "club" whereby the "Department" 
would be compelled to withdraw the "Fencibles," caused to be in- 
serted in the columns of an afternoon paper some severe criti- 
cism regarding the conduct of this time-honored organization. 
So eager were they to condemn the "Fencibles," and their reports 
were so ridiculous, that any military man could easily read be- 
tween the lines the real reason for this severe criticism. 

The following article appeared in the Evening Bulletin, which 
is self-explanatory : 

Declaring that the fault lay at the doors of Superintendent of 
Police, who ordered him to deploy his men at intervals of ten 
feet along the line of disturbances in Kensigton yesterday, Major 
Thurber T. Brazer bitterly resented this morning the slurs cast 
upon the actions of the State Fencibles, who, he said, were unable, 
by reason of their inferior force, to cope with the situation caused 
by the rioters. 

' ' If any one of our men had fired into that crowd yesterday, he 
would have been annihilated at once by the mob. The men, a 
mere handful, were stationed ten feet apart. What could they 
hope to do against a disorderly crowd of 10,000? If we had fired 
there would have been anarchy in this town last nighty and we 
would have been held responsible for the lives of innocent 
women and children. ' ' 

Every officer of the organization was vehement in denying that 
the four companies of the citizen soldiers had proved inefficient. 
They said the men had done the best that could be expected 
of them in such a situation and that their refusal to order them 
to fire into the crowds was prompted by the knowledge that it 
would mean certain suicide for the men. 



1910 THE TROLLEY STRIKE 

"There we were," he said, "a mere handful of men amongst 
a mob of fully ten or fifteen thousand. Each soldier was soon 
surrounded by an individual crowd, and could do nothing alone. 
It is not true that uniforms were torn from my men, that their 
buttons were cut off, or their equipment stolen. I inspected the 
men at the armory last night and each man had his full comple- 
ment, with the exception of a few who had lost their hats. 

"They are blaming us this morning, but how much greater 
would be the blame had we shot women and children. They 
came and begged us to protect them. We had orders to patrol 
the streets and keep the people moving." 

A very prominent officer of the N. G. P. who was in the thick of 
the disturbances, complimented Major Brazer on the behavior of 
his men, saying that they deserved great credit for their work, 
but added that there were too few of them to do any good. 
^^ "I consider," said Major Brazer, in summing up the situation 
"that in sending us to the very storm center of the whole busi- 
ness was a move of the police department to shift the responsi- 
bility to our shoulders. No company of loO men could cope with 
the crowd that assembled there yesterday, unless they used vio- 
lence, and, in my judgment, that was not necessary. I feel that 
it is both unjust and unfair to say we did not do our duty to 
the best of our ability, and if we go out again today I will" not 
use the men in the same manner except under strongest protest." 

The Evcuiug BuUetin of a later date said: 

Director Clay gave out resolutions adopted at the meeting of 
the Old Guard, State Fencibles. The resolutions follow: 

Resolved, That the Old Guard congratulates the Infantry Bat- 
talion State Fencibles upon the promptness with which its rank 
and file, to the last man, responded to the call for the voluntary 
performance of an unpopular duty, fraught with danger and 
great personal inconvenience. 

"Resolved, That it is to be regretted that at a time when 
bitter criticism was awarded to all who assisted in the mainte- 
nance of law and order in the city of Philadelphia false and mali- 
cious reports were circulated concerning the manner in which the 
Fencibles performed their duty. It suffices to state that during 
the few hours that the battalion was, by mistaken orders, directed 
to perform patrol duty on the streets, that, beyond the unfriendly 
comments of a mob of 5,000 to 10,000 people, there was no other 
disorder, not a blow was struck, a shot fired or a car disturbed. 
When the command was withdrawn for other duty the men retired 
with uniform and ammuniton identical with what was brought 
into service. 

"It is the testimony of eye witnesses, both military and civil, 
that at this critical moment the corps acted with co'urage and' 



391 



392 t)NE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

discretion ; that the remaining nine days of service in guarding 
the powerhouses were of incalculable value and of the greatest 
service to the workers therein, as evidenced by the written com- 
ments of those who had knowledge. 

' ' Resolved, That as the Fencibles have given honorable service 
to city. State and nation from the War of 1812 down to and in- 
cluding the Spanish-American War, and had an unbroken record 
for patriotic efficiency, the Old Guard views with pride its latest 
performance of duty, and though we deplore the necessity for its 
use upon such occasions, we feel justified in asserting that when- 
ever the City of Philadelphia requires the services of the Infantry 
Battalion State Fencibles, either to testify to its civic triumphs 
or to aid in the maintenance of law and order, it will be found 
ready to maintain unsullied its reputation acquired in nigh a 
century of service. 

' ' Resolved, That we tender our thanks to the Mayor and to the 
Director of Public Safety for their public acknowledgment of 
the merit of the service of the battalion. Time, which rights all 
things, will eventually heartily applaud the courage and discretion 
with which our chief officials and all who acted under their orders 
attested their devotion to our beloved city and the best interests 
of its citizens. 

' ' Resolved, That the following members of the Old Guard are 
hereby appointed a committee to convey a copy of these resolu- 
tions to the Mayor, Director of Public Safety and Major Brazer 
and his command: Robert P. Schellinger, Robert J. Thompson, 
Francis K. Worley, Fred W. Lawrence and Emanuel Furth. ' ' 

The best evidence of the value of the good, faithful, efficient 
and effective service rendered by the Fencibles, to the City of 
Philadelphia, lay in the fact that on the following day, after the 
much talked of event at Germantown and Lehigh avenues, the 
several companies of the Command were assigned the most import- 
ant service an organization could render, to wit, guarding the 
"Power Houses." Capt. John D. Garcia, Co. A, was assigned to 
Thirty-third and Market Streets; Capt. Edw. Lanneau, Co. B, 
to Thirteenth and Mt. Vernon Streets; Capt. Edw. Prittie, Co. 
C, to Second Street and Wyoming Avenue barn and power house: 
Lieut. Geo. Davis, detail from Co. B, to 920 Delaware Avenue; 
Lieut. H. Stanley Ellis, Co. D, to Beach and Green Streets, where 
the Command remained until the evening of March 1st, when they 
were mustered out of service, the strike having virtually ended. 



1910 THE TEOLLEY STEIKE 393 

Among the many letters received at the conclusion of the strike 
service were: 



DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY. 
City Hall. 

Philadelphia, March 1, 1910. 
Major Thurber T. Brazer, 

Infantry Battalion State Feneibles, 
Philadelphia. 
Dear Sir: 

The Infantry Battalion State Feneibles is hereby relieved from 
further duty from and after 6 'clock p. m. this day. 

At the earliest possible moment furnish to Mr. Walter S. Hop- 
per, Chief Clerk of the Department of Public Safety, the roll of 
the command, giving the name, time of service of each officer and 
enlisted men ; also a complete and detailed statement of any and 
all accounts which you have to present. 

Make known to the command my ap})reciation of their ready 
and willing response to the call of February 21st last, and com- 
mend them for the faithful, useful and efficient services which 
they have since rendered in aiding the efforts of the authorities 
of the city to suppress riot and prevent disturbances of the peace, 
the acknowledgment of which it is my pleasant duty to make. 

Respectfully yours, 

Henry Clay, 

Director. 

PHILADELPHIA RAPID TRANSIT CO. 

Department of Motor Power, 

Thirty-third and Market Sts., 

Philadelphia, March 1, 1910. 
Major Thurber T. Brazer, 

Infantry Battalion State Feneibles. 

Sir: 

Captain John D. Garcia and his detail, while on duty at this 
place, the Thirty-third and Market Streets Power Station of the 
P. R. T. Co.,* performed their duty faithfully and well, never 
relaxing their vigilance night or day. The employees at this 
Station, after seeing the perfect watch established, told me that 
they felt that they and the plant, were being carefully guarded 
since the arrival of the soldiers. 

John W. Boysen, 
Firfit Engineer. 



394 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

POWER HOUSE 
Fifth and Jackson Streets, 

Philadelphia, March 1, 1910. 
Major T. T. Brazer. 
Dear Sir: 

The men sent here have done their duty assigned to them nobly 
and fearlessly. I have nothing but praise for them. 
Sincerely yours, 

P. J. O'Brien, 

Detective. 
From the Frankford Dispatch: 

Michael Wolloek, a private in Company B, of the State Fenei- 
bles, stopped a runaway team on Sunday afternoon. Wolloek, with 
three other members of the Fencibles, was on duty at the power 
house at Frankford Avenue and Arrott Street. A funeral was 
passing, the last carriage in line being driven by Joseph Lerner. 
In front of the power house the horses became unmanageable, 
and started on a dash up the street. Lerner was thrown from his 
seat to the ground, but was not seriously hurt. 

Wolloek 23ursued the runaway, climbed into the rear of the 
carriage, gained the driver 's seat, leaned forward and seized 
the dangling reins and brought the horses to a stop. 

On May 26th, occurred the annual inspection by Lieutenant Mills, 
detailed by the Director of Public Safety. On the 28th, the Bat- 
talion celebrated its 97th Anniversary by a street parade in the 
afternoon and a banquet in the evening. On the 30th, Memorial 
Day, Company D paraded as an escort to Kearney Post No. 55, 
at Frankford. 

The following appeared in the Evening Bulletin concerning the 
Anniversary parade : 

The Infantry Battalion and the Old Guard of the State Fenci- 
bles will celebrate the ninety-seventh anniversary of the organiza- 
tion with a street parade and a banquet to-day. 

Attired in full dress uniform, the entire command will leave the 
armory, Broad and Race Sts., at 4 o 'clock this afternoon and 
march over the following route: South on Broad St., to Pine St., 
to 16th St., to Chestnut St., to 5th St., to Market St., to Broad 
St. and then back to the armory. 

The Old Guard will lead the infantry and act as escort. Major 
Emanuel Furth, of the Old Guard, will be at the head of the 
veterans. The active infantry will be accompanied by Major 
Thurber T. Brazer, and Captain Thomas S. Lanard. 

The uniform that the soldiers will wear comprises red coats, 
white trousers and shakos. The State Fencibles ' brass band, of 



1910 CAMP AT SEA ISLE CITY 395 

fifty pieces, will also be in line. At 4.15 o'clock this afternoon 
the parade will be reviewed from the balcony of the Union League 
by Mayor Eeyburn, Director of Public Safety Clay and others. 
After the parade the annual banquet will be served in the 
armory, which is decorated artistically for the occasion. 

The entire command wiM be guests at the dinner and among 
the speakers will be Mayor Rcyburn, Director Clay, Major Brazer, 
Major Furth, Captain Lanard, Colonel John Wiggins, Colonel 
Beitler and members on the staff of Governor Stuart. 

The last time they were in service was during the recent strike 
of the Union trolley men in this city. They were assigned to pa- 
trol Germantown Ave., near Lehigh Ave., where sympathizers of 
the strikers had created disturbances. The infantry was attacked 
by hundreds of men and boys during the early part of the strike. 
Desjnte the attack. Major Brazer, who was in command, did 
not order his men to fire and he has since been commended for 
preventing many deaths which would have occurred had the Fen- 
cibles opened fire on their assailants. 

At a meeting: of the Board of Officers held in June, a new at- 
tendance Medal was adopted to be awarded as follows: One hun- 
dred per cent. IMedal to be awarded to a member attending 45 
drills and one camp in any year. Eighty per cent. Medal to a mem- 
ber attending 35 drills and one camp in any year. 

In August occurred the annual summer encampment at Sea 
Isle City, New Jersey. 

Of this Camp the Evfuiiig BuUciin, said: 

The State Fencibles, the battalion of municipal troops, will 
jjarade and leave for camp at Sea Isle City tonight. Two hun- 
dred men and officers and the band of thirty-five pieces will march 
down Broad Street to Market Street, to the Ferry, to Camden, 
where a special train will await them. 

Major Thurber T. Brazer will command the battalion while 
at camp. Mayor Reyburn and other city officials will inspect the 
camp on Thursday. 

The militiamen will go through approved military routine of 
duties while at camp, and arrangements have been made in 
Sea Isle City for their entertainment by the residents. The Sea 
Isle Yacht Club will make the soldiers their guests on one night, 
and a reception and dance will be held on the ocean pier Wednes- 
day evening. 

At a cost of $13,000 the Fencibles have purchased this year 
a complete new camping equipment. They will wear the usual 
khaki uniform and service hats, with white belts, and break 
camp August 13. 



396 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

From the Sea Isle City Review: 

This resort has enjoyed the presence of the soldier boys for al- 
most a week and the camp at Prince Street and the beach has 
been frequented daily by throngs of cottagers and visitors. 

At 11 o'clock Friday night the State Fencibles arrived at 
Sea Isle and the soldiers, who will be with us for ten days, were 
met at the Pennsylvania Station by the Sea Isle City Guards, 
in command of Captain Louis Conn, the local Drum Corps and 
the city ofiicials in a body. 

All the pretty girls in town gathered about the station to 
greet the soldiers and their happy smiles were good omens for 
the khaki clad lads. 

When the special train reached the station it was the signal for 
a bombardment of cannon crackers and fire arms, and soaring 
rockets lighted up the midnight scene. The visiting soldiers 
formed on Ocean Avenue and marched to Marine Place to the 
thrilling strains of good old ' ' Dixie ' ' and as the column swung 
onto the boardwalk the Electric Light Company threw on the 
current and bathed the ocean promenade in a flood of light. 

The boys arrived at the camp about 12 o'clock and found that 
the advance guard had everything prepared for them, and all 
they had to do was kick off their shoes and roll into a cot. 

Camp John Miller is so named in honor of Captain John 
Miller who was connected with the Fencibles for 20 years before 
the Civil War and took his company through the four years' 
strife with honors. 

The tents, made of 8 oz. regulation duck, are furnished in the 
most comfortable manner and the officers of the battalion deserve 
great credit for having secured such good equipment for the 
Command.* * * 

Maids and matrons were as much in evidence as were the natty 
soldier boys at the State Fencibles' Ball held in the Casino Tues- 
day night. The younger set of the summer colony vied with 
each other in the elegance of their costumes and the richly 
dressed belles and their soldier escorts in dress uniforms of olive 
drab coat and white trousers, afforded a most pleasing spectacle. 
The young ladies who have complained of the lack of partners 
at recent dances, could find no fault with the affair of Tuesday 
night. There was a seemingly endless line of men claiming 
honors. 

The dancing progressed uninterruptedly, the Fencibles' Band 
and McCoy 's Orchestra playing alternate numbers, crowding 
almost a score of dances into the evening's pleasures. 

Major Thurber T. Brazer and Miss Elizabeth Keinnegeiser led 
the grand march and all of the Sea Isle summer belles and 
beaux were in line. 



1910 CAMP AT SKA ISLE CITY 397 

It was Olio of tlie suocossf'ul affairs of the season :mil ixr\o un- 
alloyed pleasure to the happy participants. 

The final waltz endeJ near midnight and tlic i;,ny ciowd dis- 
persed, happy at having been present, but with all, sorry that 
another year must roll around before they might join the Fen- 
cible boys at another of their famous hops. 

From tho Philadelphia Public Ledger. 

Sea Isle City, N. J., Aug. 9. — The annual hop of the Fencibles 
on the Ocean Pier tonight was the social event of the season. 
Music was furnished by the Fencibles' Band of 25 pieces, assisted 
by McCoy 's Orchestra. The hop was under the direction of 
Captain Thomas S. Lanard, assisted by Captain E. Ij. Lanneau ; 
Captain E. J. Prittie, Lieutenant M. H. Smith, Jr., Lieutenant 
G. S. Davis, Lieutenant H. L. Woodland, Lieutenant G. L. Porter, 
Commissary Sergeant C. S. Merkle, Quartermaster Sergeant W. H. 
Hinkle, Corporal A. McGill, Sergeant J. J. Mullin, Sergeants 
G. Hunter and E. Dunn. At dress parade. Captain John D. 
Garcia was presented with a silver-plated sabre by Major Brazer 
as a token of the good will from Company A. 

Of the sword presentation the Sea Isle City Review said: 

During the evening parade Monday, Capt. John D. Garcia 
was summoned before Major Brazer and presented with a beau- 
tifully finished silver plated sword, a gift from the enlisted 
men of Company A. The gift was a most grateful surprise to 
Captain Garcia and is the first presentation of the kind made in 
the Battalion in fifteen years. Upon receiving the gift Captain 
Garcia saluted the Major and returned to his command, his 
heart too full for utterance. Immediately after parade he formed 
his men in front of their quarters and in a neat speech thanked 
them for the good will shown by the gift. When he had finished 
Camp John Miller echoed and re-echoed with cheers for the jiopu- 
lar captain. 

The blade bears the captain's name and the scabbard is en- 
graved with name, rank and title, the whole a work of art, which 
will be treasured by the recipient. 

From the Daily Boardwalk Breeze: 

The enlisted men of Camp John Miller were taken on a cruise 
down the thorofare and bay as far as Princeton Harbor, Avalon, 
and returned to the club house, by the Sea Isle Yacht Club. Five 
launches were used on the trip and each boat was filled to its 
capacity. A bevy of pretty girls met the boys at Townsend 's 
Inlet and Avalon, and welcomed them so heartily that for a time 
it appeared the entire crew would desert ship. It is a safe guess 



398 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

that all Mould like to take the trip again and stay at those spots 
longer. 

It was a jolly outing for the boys and it was a happy crowd 
that returned to the club house on the thoroughfare late in the day, 
where waiting automobiles conveyed group after group back to 
the tent city of Camp John MiUer. 

The old game of escorting the Mayor, worked again yesterday 
like a charm. The ' ' rookies ' ' turned out in dress uniform, 
marched to the Adjutant's tent, to bugle and drum, where they 
were halted. After waiting about fifteen minutes the adjutant 
appeared and informed them that some person was fooling them. 
Everybody had a good laugh and the Adjutant treated the 
' ' Mayor 's guard ' ' to cigars. The members were as follows. 
Privates David, Zritz and Weiner, of Co. A., Private White, of 
Co. B., Privates Salit and Katz, of Co. C, and Private Nepley, 
of Co. D. The detail was in charge of Sergt. Redmond. He is 
angry yet. They had four or five pictures taken before re- 
porting to the Adjutant. 

The battalion as it passed in grand review yesterday, before 
Director of Public Safety Clay, Assistant Director Sheehan, Se- 
lect Councilman Walter Sykes, Major Furth, Judge Campbell and 
Hon. J. J. Coyle, was witnessed by the largest crowd that has vis- 
ited Camp John Miller. The many friends the officers and men 
have made, were all present to cheer their favorites. Director 
Clay acted as insjDecting officer in the absence of Mayor Reyburn. 
Major Furth, of the Old Guard, Judge Campbell and Hon. J. J. 
Coyle, were honorary members of the inspection officials. 

In the early part of 1909, a suggestion was made by Col. Jos. F. 
Burke, on one of his visits to Philadelphia, that the Old Gate City 
Guard were planning to erect a monument in Atlanta, commemorat- 
ing the visit of the "Gate City Guard" to the northern cities, 
October, 1879. 

On the 6th day of September, 1910, Col. J. F. Burke arrived at 
Philadelphia and was met by Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Maj. Eman- 
uel Furth, of the Old Guard, and Capt. Thomas S. Lanard, Adju- 
tant. A visit was made to the City Hall, where the "Colonel" 
was introduced to His Honor, Mayor Reyburn. 

In the afternoon Colonel Burke made an address before a joint 
session of Councils and said inter alia : 

' ' The Gate City Guard never forgot that reception.* Atlanta 
was then ruined by the war, but she soon recovered and now we 
are on the high tide of prosperity. Now we are able to .show our 

*See page 283 for visit of Gate City Guard to Philadelphia. 



1910 INVITATION TO VISIT ATLANTA 399 

appreciation of the cordiality shown us many years ago. We 
have decided to erect a monument to commemorate our trip. We 
have also decided to ask representatives of all the cities that 
received us to take part in its dedication. 

"That is the reason why I am here today. I want to ask the 
Councils of this big city to send a delegation to Atlanta on 
October 10, 1911. I ask you on behalf of the Gate City Guard, 
the City of Atlanta, the Board of Trade and other organizations 
of citizens. 

On its base will bo inscribed the names of the cities who are 
represented there. I want and all Atlanta wants Philadelphia's 
name to occupy a prominent place on that list. ' ' 

At the conclusion of Colonel Burke's address Select Councilman 
Edward W. Patton moved that a resolution be prepared and pre- 
sented to Councils in proper form accepting the invitation. It 
was carried amid cheers. 

The evening was spent at the Armory, where the Battalion gave 
an exhibition drill, followed by a banquet, and many of the City 
officials and other officers were present. 

Shortly after the visit of Colonel Burke the official invitation 
was received and the Battalion began active preparation for the 
trip. 

The Old Guard 

of the 

Gate City Guard 

Respectfidly invites you to participate in 

the dedication of the 

Monument Commemorating their 

^'Mission of Peace" 

to the Eastern States after the Civil War. 

The ceremonies will he held 

on the ninth, tenth and eleventh of October 

Nineteen hundred and eleven 

At Atlanta, Georgia . 

J. F. Burke 

Commanding Old Guard 
Hoke Smith 

Governor 

Frederick J. Paxson 

President Chamber of Commerce 
Courtland S. Winn 
Mayor 

Louis Gholstin 

Chairman Citizens' Committee 



400 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

The fall season 1910, opened with the entertainment committee 
very active and the Battalion in excellent condition. In October 
occurred the reception by the Commanding Officer followed by 
a dance and parad«. In November, Company A, held its annual 
dance and in December. Company B, closed the year with a 
dance where the old time sociability was much in evidence. 



CHAPTER XXL 
1911. 

MILITARY LECTURES — PREPARATION FOR VISIT TO ATLANTA — ANNIVER- 
SARY PARADE — ORDERS — ITINERARY — VISIT TO ATLANTA — PARADE — 

UNVEILING OF MONUMENT ENTERTAINMENT AT ATLANTA VISIT TO 

SPARTANBURG, S. C. ; CHARLOTTE, N. C. ; DANVILLE, VA. ; AND WASH- 
INGTON, D. C. DEDICATION OF WANAMAKEr's HOUSE OF BUSINESS. 

The year 1911 opened with great activity. The Board of Officers 
arranged the following lectures: January, "Map Reading," by 
Captain and Engineer George S. Davis; February, "First Aid 
Work." by Captain and Surgeon Frank N. Greene; March, "Court 
Martial," by Captain and Adjutant Thomas S. Lanard ; April, 
"Commissary in Actual Service," by Captain and Commissary A. 
PI. Burton. These talks proved to be very instructive and were at- 
tended by all the officers. 

During the month of January, in accordance with the schedule 
arranged in October, 1910, Company C held a reception and dance 
at the Armory which was followed in February by Company D, 
and in ]\Iarch, the entire Battalion gave a dress parade and dance. 

The active work of the Battalion was the preparation for a trip 
to Atlanta, where they had been detailed as an escort to the ^Mayor 
and Committee of Councils of the City of Philadelphia, to partici- 
pate in the ceremony incident to the unveiling of the Peace Monu- 
ment by the "Old Guard of the Gate City Guard," on October 
11th. The companies were drilling two nights each week. An 
order was placed with N. Snellenburg & Co. for new red dress 
coats; Henderson & Co. for blue fatigue uniforms; and ITorts- 
mann & Co. for new caps. 

On May 24th, the four companies were inspected by Lieutenant 
Mills, who was detailed l\v the Director of the Department of Public 
Safety. On the 27th, occurred the Anniversary parade in the after- 
noon followed by a banquet in the evening. 

The annual summer encampment was by resolution of the Board 
of Officers abandoned, owing to the expense and time required in 
26 401 



402 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

perfecting the arrangements for the trip South, scheduled for 
October. 

On August 15th. the following order was issued: 

State of Georgia, 
Adjutant General's Office, 

Atlanta, Ga., August 9, 1911. 
General Orders, 
No. 10. 
Permission to enter the State of Georgia during the month of 
October, 1911, full armed and equipped, but without ball car- 
tridges, for the purpose of attending the dedication ceremonies 
of a Monument commemorating the history of the GATE CITY 
GUARD in War and Peace, is hereby granted all duly invited 
military organizations of other States. 
By order of the Governor. 

Wm. G. Obear, 
The Adjutant General. 

On September 30th, 1911. the following orders were issued: 

Headquarters 

Infantry Battalion State Fencibles. 

Armory, Broad and Race Streets. 

Philadelphia, September 30, 1911. 
Orders 
No. 12. 

I. The officers and men of the Provisional Battalion detailed to 
visit Atlanta, Ga., as an Escort to the Mayor and Committee of 
Councils of the City of Philadelphia, to participate in the cere- 
mony incident to the unveiling of the Peace Monument by the 
"Old Guard of the Gate City Guard," on October 11th. 1911, 
vcill assemble at the Armory in Full Dress uniform [white gloves 
and overgaiters] Saturday, October 7th, at 12 o 'clock noon, pre- 
pared to take special train at Broad Street Station, at an hour 
to be hereafter announced. 

II. The Staff will report dismounted for this occasion. 

III. The Band will report to the Adjutant at 11.45 a. m. 

IV. The following Rules and Regulations governing the trip 
are announced for the guidance of all concerned: 

1. Officers' Baggage and Haversacks of enlisted men must 
be at the Armory properly tagged, not later than 10 a. m., 
Saturday, October 7th. 

2. Officers and men will provide themselves with three pairs 
of white gloves. 

3. BLACK SHOES only will be permitted on this trip. 

4. Officers and men will not be permitted to wear any uni- 
form except as prescribed by these Headquarters. 



1911 ITINERARY FOR SOUTHERN TRIP 403 

5. Attention is etilled to the special care wliicli sliould be 
fjiven to the uniforms in order that they will not become soiled 
and rendered unfit for parade. 

6. On this occasion there will be represented in Atlanta, 
prominent military organizations from the several States. 
Attention is called to the conduct expected of each man. The 
Commanding: Officer does not expect any violation on the 
part of the men of any rule or order, but in the event of any 
infraction of the same, promj)t measure will be taken to pre- 
serve the reputation of the Command. 

By order of Major Brazer. 

Thomas S. Lanard, 
Captain and Adjutant. 

On the 4th day of September. Captain and Adjutant Thomas 
S. Lanard was detailed to proceed at once to Atlanta, Georgia, and 
there make all necessary arrangements for the tpiartering and sub- 
sisting of the Battalion for October 8th, 9th. 10th, and 11th. Ac- 
cordingly, he left Philadelphia and arrived in Atlanta on the morn- 
ing of the 6th, where he was met by Col. J. F. Burke, of the Old 
Guard of the Gate City Guard. Arrangements were made to 
quarter the Battalion at the Auditorium Armory and meals to be 
served at the Cafe Duran. 

The South, learning of the anticipated visit of the Pencibles, 
invitations from manj^ cities en route, were received, requesting the 
Fencibles to make a short stop off. So urgent were these requests, 
that the Board of Officers finally selected the cities of Spartanburg, 
S. C. ; Charlotte. N. C. ; Danville, Va. ; and Washington, D. C, and 
accordingly instructed the Adjutant, Captain Thomas S. Lanard, 
who arranged the following itinerary: 

Saturday, October 7th, 1911 

Leave Broad Street Station, Philadelphia, 2.48 P.M. 

Arrive Washington, D. C, 6.05 P. M. 

Sunday, October 8th 

Arrive Charlotte, N. C, 5.00 A. M. 

Arrive Spartanburg, S. C, 7.15 A. M. 

Arrive Greenville, S. C, 8.15 A. M. 

Arrive Atlanta, Ga., 1.30 P. M. 

Headquarters 
Auditorium Armory 

Thursday, October 12th 

Leave Atlanta, Ga., 5.00 A. M. 

Arrive Spartanburg, S. C, 10.30 A. M. 

Leave Spartanburg, S. C, 1 2.00 Noon. 



404 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

Arrive Charlotte, N. C, 2.00 P. M. 

Leave Charlotte, N. C, 4.00 P. M. 

Arrive Danville, Va., 8.00 P. M. 

Leave Danville, Va., 11.00 P. M. 

Friday, October 13th 

Arrive Washington, D. C, 7.00 A. M. 

Leave Washington, D. C, 1.45 P. M. 

Arrive Philadelphia, 4.50 P. M. 

Saturday, October 7th, is a day long to be remembered by this 
Command. Notwithstanding that "Jupiter Pluvius" had been 
pouring down his blessings for about 48 hours previous, the ele- 
ments failed to put a "damper" on the enthusiasm and spirit of 
the "Fencibles." 

A public reception and band concert was held at the Armory, 
prior to the departure, and about one o'clock "Old Sol" made his 
appearance for the first time during the day. 

The Command left the Armory at 1.30 P. M. amid the cheers 
and shouts of the assembled crowd. 

The papers said of the departure for Atlanta : 

The Infantry Battalion and the Old Guard of the State Fenci- 
bles put on their harness yesterday afternoon. 

A sqnad of mounted traffic policemen led the march, which was 
from the armory down Broad Street to Chestnut, to Eighth, to 
Market, to Broad, to the Broad Street Station. Following the 
police escort was the Old Guard. All of these wore blue uniforms 
with black braid trimmings. They were commanded by Major 
Emanuel Furth. 

Next came the active members of the Fencibles, headed by 
their band, all clad in red coats, blue trousers, and tall black 
shakos. Major Thurber T. Brazer commanding, and Captain 
Thomas S. Lanard as Adjutant. 

The soldiers made a brave showing and sidewalks along the 
line of march were crowded with admiring spectators. The fem- 
inine part of the Chestnut Street promenaders seemed particu- 
larly impressed and the heart of many a son of Mars beat faster 
as there drifted to his ears an enthusiastic, " Oh ! don 't they 
look grand! " or "My! it must be fine to be a military man! " 
But the soldiers apjaeared to hear nothing and marched along 
with ' ' eyes front ' ' as steadily as West Point cadets. 

Then the band would strike up a martial air that together with 
the bright uniforms and the guns and the waving banners thrilled 
one in spite of oneself and, as one girl said, made one feel as if 
anybody could walk in battle to the cannon 's mouth if the band 
was playing a Sousa march. , j 



1911 FENCIBLES LEAVE FOR ATLANTA 405 

The Atlanta Journal. 

Oct. 7, 1911. — Fulfilling a promise made 30 years ago to return 
a visit to the Gate City Guard, Atlanta 's crack military organiza- 
tion, the State Fencibles marched from their armory today with 
bands playing and in brilliant uniforms and entrained under 
threatening skies for Atlanta. Accompanying the Fencibles, who 
are commanded by Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, are the Mayor of the 
city, John E. Reyburn, a committee of both branches of City 
Council and several other prominent city officials. 

A great crowd cheered their departure. The trip includes stojis 
at a number of Southern cities where speeches will be delivered 
and a display made in the form of short parades of the magnifi- 
cent body of Fencibles. The trip will last six days, four of which 
will be spent in Atlanta. New uniforms have been provided and 
the men are armed with the Krag rifles. 

The celebration naturally begins with the arrival of the eastern 
troops in Atlanta. The Philadelphia Fencibles, the first of these 
commands to arrive will reach the city at 1.30 o'clock Sunday 
afternoon, according to special dispatches. 

Mayor Courtland S. Winn, a committee from the City Council 
of Atlanta and a citizens' committee will meet Mayor Eeyburn 
and the visiting Councilmen, and escort them to their hotels. 
When the Fencibles march from the Terminal station they will 
find a company of the Fifth Regiment National Guard of Georgia, 
drawn up in line, to escort them to the auditorium, where the 
visiting command will be quartered in Taft Hall. 

On the arrival of the Command at Broad Street Station, there 
awaiting them was a solid steel Pullman special, composed of one 
baggage, two diners and five Pullman sleepers. Promptly at 2.48 
the train left Broad Street Station and thus the trip began. 

The journey South was not \^^thout incidents, from the very 
hour the Command left Philadelphia, until the arrival at Atlanta 
many interesting sights added to the entertainment. When the 
spirit of the occasion seemed to lag, Sunday, about 2 A. ]\I., the 
' ' Southern ' ' added a novel feature to the itinerary by demonstrat- 
ing the old problem that two trains cannot pass on the same track 
without somewhat delaying the traffic; thus they had an oppor- 
tunity^ to winess a Southern wrecking crew at work from 2 A. M. 
until 9 o'clock that morning. 

The Fencibles reached Atlanta, Sunday, October 8th, 1911, be- 
ing the first troops to arrive. The Atlanta Journal, said: 

The vanguard of the army of eastern and southern soldiers, 
who will be the guests of Atlanta for the next three days reached 



406 O^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

Atlanta early Sunday night, taking the city by storm, and re- 
ceiving an ovation from thousands of Atlantians, who thronged 
the streets. 

First came the Feneibles, of Philadelphia, two entire companies, 
a veteran corps, and a band. Resplendent in their gorgeous uni- 
forms of scarlet, white and gold, the Feneibles detrained from 
a Southern special at the Terminal station shortly after 7 o 'clock. 

Cheer after cheer greeted the Feneibles as they marched to the 
auditorium-armory, where the command is quartered. 

A special telegram to the Phila. Public Ledger said: 

Atlanta, Ga., Oct. 8, 1911. — With true Southern hospitality, 
the State Feneibles and their band, acting as an escort for the 
Feneibles, Old Guard and the civilian delegation, headed by Mayor 
Reyburn, of Philadelphia, were welcomed here tonight. Of all 
the delegations arriving to attend the celebration of the unveiling 
of the Mission of Peace Monument, the Feneibles made the most 
imposing entrance into the city and were greeted along the line of 
march to the auditorium-armory by several thousand people. 

Philadelphia's representation will have an important part in the 
programme for the next three days, in which six Governors, 
5,000 troops and hundreds of distinguished civilians will par- 
ticipate. 

The Atlanta Constitution said of the arrival of the Feneibles: 

Perhaps none of the arrivals last night attracted more attention 
than did the Feneibles, of Philadelphia. Clad in their bright red 
coats, both the active and retired members, the latter comi)osing 
the Old Guard, were as well set up and finely drilled as in the 
days when the Atlanta company made its famous trip. 

The Infantry Battalion State Feneibles, which arrived last 
night, 175 strong, was accompanied by its band, composed of 35 
men. This famous old battalion will hold its centennial anniver- 
sary soon, for it was organized in May, 1813. When the celebra- 
tion does take place many ceremonies will be inaugurated and 
a gathering of military bands invited to Philadelphia. 

The command which arrived Sunday night is composed of both 
the Feneibles, the active members, and the Old Guard, numbering 
32 men, who are retired. But three of the men who were in the 
service in '78 are still on the active list: Capt. E. E. Packer, regi- 
mental quartermaster; Major Brazer and Sergeant Benjamin 
Jamison. 

The commander of the Old Guard is Major Emanuel Furth. 
The Old Guard is composed of men who acted as hosts to the 
Georgia company in '79. The Feneibles in all their history have 
had over 6,000 men enlisted. 



1911 FENCIBLES TN ATLANTA 407 

On tho arrival of the Feneiblos at the Armory, the Battalion 
was formed and after the band jilayed a seleetion, Capt. Thomas S. 
Lanard presented to ]\Ia,i. Thurber T. Brazer, of the active com- 
mand, and Maj. Emanuel Furth, of the Old Guard, bronze service 
medals on behalf of the active command. Shortly thereafter, Col. 
Jos. F. Burke arrived and an informal reception followed. 

The members of the Fencibles were presented with privilege 
cards for The University, Capital City, The Union and ^Mechanics, 
Atlanta Athletic, The Owls and many other clubs, where in every 
instance they were received with that hospitality, which has made 
the South known over the entire world. 

Dinner was served at the Cafe Duran. at 9 o'clock, after which 
the officers and men of the Command "took in the sights" of At- 
lanta. 

One of the most interesting events included in the itinerary was 
a visit to "Grant Park." jMonday, Oetol)er 9th, to witness the 
cyclorama of the Battle of Atlanta. There, very vividly portrayed, 
was the scene enacted half century before. 

Monday evening the Fencibles, clad in their fatigue uniform, 
with the band and Old Guard, paid their respects to His Honor, 
Mayor Reybum, and the Committee of Councils, at the "Georgian 
Terrace." After a short informal reception, the Command re- 
turned to the Armory to participate in the smoker and reception 
scheduled for 8.30 o'clock, when the North met the South at a 
housewarming at Taft Hall. The Old Guard of the Gate City 
Guard, the Chamber of Commerce and the local militia were hosts 
to the visiting military men and their friends. Instead of the 
formal reception so many expected, restraint was forgotten, good 
fellowship reigned and tliere was no such thing as enmity between 
sections. Never were soldier boys from North and South more like 
brothers. 

The Governor's Foot Guard of Connecticut were among the 
first to arrive. They were followed by the Hartford Phalanx, and 
other delegations, and the Philadelphia Fencibles marched in to 
the tune of "Dixie." 

On Tuesday, October 10th, the Military parade was the spectac- 
ular feature of the day. In gay and historic uniforms, organiza- 
tions from afar marched in line ^vith men who fought for the South. 

Thousands lined the streets to cheer the marching soldiers, in 



408 <^NE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

the greatest military pageant in the history of Atlanta. Even a 
cold, drizzling rain did not run the crowd from the streets, and 
the brilliant display made by the military was not lost. 

Never before had Atlanta seen such a brilliant array of gorgeous 
uniforms, and such remarkable military precision as that of many 
of the visiting commands. The parade passed up Mitchell Street 
to Whitehall and out Whitehall to Peachtree to Fourteenth Street. 

It is variously estimated that from 50,000 to 75.000 people wit- 
nessed the pageant as it slowly wended its way to Piedmont Park, 
where the Peace Monument of the Old Gate City Guard was un- 
veiled. 

Among the many notables in the parade were Grand Marshal 
Col. J. F. Burke, commander of the Old Gate City Guard, and 
the man largely responsible for the peace celebration; Gen. A .L. 
Mills, U. S. A., commander of the Department of the Gulf and 
reviewing officer of the parade ; Mrs. Matthew T. Scott, President 
General of the Daughters of the American Revolution ; Governor 
Simeon E. Baldwin, of Connecticut ; the Mayors of Philadelphia, 
Hartford, Baltimore and Atlanta, members of the City Council of 
Philadelphia and Atlanta, and many others. 

The magnificent line of soldiery was reviewed at the entrance 
of Piedmont Park by General Mills and his staff, Governor Bald- 
win and his staff, the Grand Marshal and his staff, and other 
dignitaries. 

The Old Guard, members of the Gate City Guard, who made 
the memorable eastern tour of '79, which occasions the magnificent 
peace celebration then in progress, was 50 strong. The detachment 
was commanded by Lieut. William A. Camp. 

The uniform of the Old Guard for this occasion was the con- 
ventional morning dress — Prince Albert or frock coats, light trous- 
ers and silk hats. Each member carried a walking cane at ' ' carry ' '. 

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery of Boston followed the 
Old Guard, in a neat uniform of blue and scarlet, the dress uni- 
form of the United States regulars, they received their share of ap- 
plause. The Ancients were commanded by Col. Everett C. Benton. 

The Boston Light Infantry, now known as the second company, 
coast artilley of Massachusetts, was next in line. This Command, 
a part of the National Guard of Massachusetts, wore the regular 
artilley blue and red. A company of veterans of the organization 



1911 FENCIBLES IN ATLANTA 409 

was also in line. The company was connnanded by Capt. Conrad 
M. Gerlach. 

The Governor's Foot Guard, of Hartford, was represented in the 
line by six big companies and a magnificent band. A brilliant 
scarlet and gold is the uniform of this famous organization, which 
was accorded a tremendous ovation by Atlanta. At one of the few 
halts made during the parade the Foot Guard ,accompanied by the 
band, sang a regimental song, which evoked great applause. In 
white and blue with big waving plumes came the Veterans of this 
command. The battalion of Foot Guards was commanded by ]\Iaj. 
Frank L. Wilcox, 

The Putnam Phalanx, of Hartford, Maj. E. C. Bigelow eonnnand- 
ing, followed the Command from the same city. The Continental 
buff and blue uniform characterized this famous Connnand. The 
members carried unique flint-lock muskets. Probably for the first 
time many Atlantians heard the shrill fifes of the Revolutionary 
period as the Putnam Phalanx passed. A tremendous ovation 
greeted them all along the line. 

Another famous Command followed the Putnam Phalanx — it 
was the Old Guard of New York. Headed by a band from the Ninth 
Regiment of Coast Artillery of New York, the famous Old Guard 
passed through the streets of Atlanta. The parade uniform of the 
Old Guard consists of blue trousers, white and gold coats and mag- 
nificent shakos. The Old Guard received a tremendous ovation 
all along the line of march. 

Next came a company of the Richmond Light Infantry Blues, 
Capt. John A. Cutchins commanding. The Blues wore a neat 
blue dress imiform and marched with that precision which has 
made that famous command known in every event in which it 
takes part. 

The Atlanta Journal said of the Infantry Battalion State Fen- 
cibles of Philadelphia: 

The State Fencibles of Philadelphia, Maj. Thurber T. Brazer 
commanding the active battalion, and Maj. Emanuel Furth, com- 
manding the Old Guard, was last in line in the third division, 
which has made such a memorable impression upon Atlantians. 
The Fencibles' Band, one of the largest bands in the parade, 
marched after the battalion officers. 

The uniform of the Fencibles was one of the most striking 
of the several brilliant military garbs seen in the parade. It was 



410 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

in brief the famous uniform of the British grenadier — a brilliant 
scarlet, and tall, handsome shakos. 

In more than their uniforms did the Feneibles resemble the 
famed British grenadier, for most of the men in the command are 
tall and exceedingly well proportioned. The drill precision of the 
command was remarkable and it was given many ovations. 

The following is the official order for the formation of the 
parade, giving a full list of the organizations which participated 
in it: 

Division Commanders. 

First Division — Brig. Gen. Clifford L. Anderson, commanding 
First Brigade National Guard of Georgia, Atlanta, Ga. 

Second Division — Col. J. C. Woodward, commanding Georgia 
Military Academy, College Park, Ga. 

Third Division — Col. Louis M. Rawlins, commanding Fifth Mary- 
land InfantrA^ National Guard, Baltimore, Md. 

Fourth Division — Retired Col. John S. Dozier, Confederate vet- 
eran and officer, Georgia Cavalry, Atlanta, Ga. 

Fifth Division — Mayor Courtland S. Winn, Mayor of City of 
Atlanta. 

Organization of Parade. 

The Grand Marshal and staff met at the Courtland Street en- 
trance of the Auditorium Armory at 9.30 A. M., October 10th, 1911 ; 
also the platoon of Confederate Veterans, under command of Col. 
John S. Prather; Brig. Gen. A. L. Mills, Department of the Gulf; 
Governor of Georgia and his staff. Brigadier General Anderson and 
his staff, and all National Guard organizations of Georgia formed on 
East Gilmer Street, right resting on Courtland, facing south in the 
following order: 

Organisations in Line. 

1. Automobiles containing Governor of Georgia and staff. 

2. Brigadier General First Brigade National Guard of Georgia 
and staff. 

3. Fifth Infantry, National Guard of Georgia, Col. E. E. Pome- 
roy, commanding; Company A, Atlanta Zouaves, Atlanta; Com- 
pany B, Capital City Guards. Atlanta ; Company D, Atlanta Rifles ; 
Company E, Lindale Rifles, Lindale, Ga. ; Company G, Cedartown 
Rifles, Cedartown ; Company H, Winder Guard, Winder ; Company 
I, Elberton Light Infantry, Elberton; Company K, Atlanta Grays. 



1911 PARADE FORMATION 411 

Atlanta; Company L. Gate City Guard, Atlanta; Company M, 
Machine Gun Battery. 

4. Fourth Battalion Infantry, National Guard of Georgia. Maj. 
Hans Mozen, commanding; Company C, Columbus Guard, ('olum- 
bus; Company E, Albany Guard, Albany; Company F, Clarke 
Rifles, Athens; Company L, Amerieus Light Infantry, Americus. 

Second Division. 

All cadet organizations formed on Gilmer Street, between Gil- 
mer and Ivy streets, right resting on Courtland, facing north, in 
the following order: 

1. Georgia Military Academy Cadets, College Park. Col. J. Q. 
Nash, commanding. 

2. Marist College Cadets, Atlanta, ]\laj. Eugene Schmidt, com- 
manding. 

3. Waleska Cadets, Waleska, Maj. A. T. Hind, commanding. 

4. ]\Iilledgeville Cadet Corps, Capt. Charles I\I. Maigne, com- 
manding. 

Third Division. 

The division commander and his staff formed on East Hunter 
Street, right resting on Washington Street, facing State Capitol. 

Fifth Maryland Infantry formed on East Hunter Street, right 
resting on Washington, facing the State Capitol. 

The following organizations from No. 1 to No. 10, inclusive, 
formed in line on the Washington Street viaduct, right resting on 
East Hunter Street, facing east: 

Red Men's Drum Corps and Band. 

1. The Old Guard (Gate City Guard), Atlanta, Lieut. William 
M. Camp, commanding. 

2. Ancient and Honorable Artillery of Boston, Col. Everett C. 
Benton, commanding. 

3. Boston Light Infantry, Capt. Conrad M. Gerlach. command- 
ing. 

4. Boston Light Infantry Veterans, Col. William II. Jackson, 
commanding. 

5. Putnam Phalanx of Hartford, Maj. E. C. Bigelow, com- 
manding. 

6. Automobile containing Mrs. Matthew P. Scott, President Gen- 
eral Daughters American Revolution, and Hon. Allen G. Newman, 
sculptor of monument, and their escort. 



412 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

7. Old Guard of New York, Maj. S. Ellis Bright, commanding. 

8. First Company, Governor's Foot Guard, of Hartford, Maj. 
Frank L. Wilcox, commanding. 

9. Infantry Battalion State Fencibles of Philadelphia, Maj. 
Thurber T. Brazer, commanding. 

10. Old Guard State Fencibles of Philadelphia, Maj. Emanuel 
Furth, commanding; Mayor John E. Reyburn and Councils of 
Philadelphia. 

11. Richmond Light Infantry Blues, National Guard of Vir- 
ginia, Col. J. Edgar Bowles, commanding. 

12. Montgomery True Blues, Montgomery, Ala., Capt. P. 0. 
Frausa, commanding. 

13. Montgomery Grays, Montgomery, Ala., Capt. J. A. David- 
son, commanding. 

14. Mobile Rifles, IMobile, Ala., Capt. J. A. Mahone, command- 
ing. 

15. Mobile Cadets, Mobile, Ala., Capt. V. J. Thompson, command- 
ing. 

16. Washington Artillery, New Orleans, La., Maj. Alison Owen, 
commanding. 

17. Hill City Cadets, Rome, Ga., Capt. J. C. Printup, command- 
ing. 

Fourth Division. 

1. Second Squadron Cavalry, National Guard of Georgia, Capt. 
J. 0. Seamans, commanding, composed of the following troops: 
Liberty Independent Troop, IMcIntosh ; Candler Horse Guard. 
Gainesville ; Richmond Hussars, Augusta ; Governor 's Horse Guard, 
Atlanta ; Georgia Hussars, Savannah. 

2. Battery "B," Atlanta Artillery, Capt. J. Ed. Eubanks, com- 
manding. 

Fifth Division. 

Automobiles containing local and visiting Mayors and Councils 
and other distinguished guests formed on Piedmont Avenue in 
rear of Artillery. The troops passed in review of the Governor of 
Georgia, visiting Governors, Brig. Gen. A. L. Mills, commanding 
Department of the Gulf, United States Army, and staff; Mayor of 
Atlanta and visiting Mayors of other cities, general officers from 




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1911 DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 413 

other States, distinguished guests. Grand Marshal. I'l-csidcnt At- 
hinta Chamher of Connnerce and local committees, etc. 

The reviewing stand was at the foot of the terrace directly in 
rear of the monument. 

Col. J. P. Burke, who led the members of the Gate City Guard 
on their mission of peace in 1879, and who was parent of the idea 
of erecting a monument as a permanent token of peace between 
the North and the Soutli. delivered an inspiring address at the un- 
veiling exercises. 

Colonel Burke opened his address by speaking of the bloody con- 
flict between the States and of the heroism manifested on both sides. 

He then spoke of the peace mission of the Gate City Guard, 
launched just as the South was emerging from the reconstruction 
days. "Thirty-two years have passed since that historic peace 
mission," he said, "and we meet again to ratify that pledge on 
ground hallowed by deeds of heroism and suffering." 

Colonel P)urke spoke of the trying experiences to which the peo- 
ple of Atlanta were sub.iected during and after the war. "But, 
now," he said, "we look through the passing years and see our 
Confederate generals in the blue uniform of our reunited States." 
Following the address he presented the monument to the City 
through the IMayor. 

The Atlanta Journal Editorial. 

Tlie unveiling of the Old Guard memorial in Atlanta today 
crowns a new and golden era in American history. 

It was two and thirty autumns ago, in the murksome aftermath 
of the nation 's greatest war, that a company of Confederate 
veterans set forth on a campaign of peace and good will to the 
North. It is difficult in these days of softened and forgotten 
prejudice to grasp the full significance of such an expedition at 
such a time. Appomattox had been left behind only fourteen 
years. Commerce, as we know it today, had not yet brought the 
dissevered sections together. New political issues had not yet 
arisen to turn the country's thought away from the past. The 
crimson shadow of the Sixties was, to be sure, slowly melting, but 
still it clung to the land and to the people 's memory. 

At the outset, therefore, this mission of peace was considered 
in many quarters to be hazardous indeed. Yet, no sooner liad 
the Old Guard crossed what then was the boundary line between 
the South and the North than the spirit of American brotherhood 
rose and triumphed a thousand times. Wherever these Atlantians 
went they were received, as has been truly said, not only with 



414 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

outstretched hands, but with open arms, and were welcomed not 
only as friends, but as brothers. 

The nation was born anew and there was written a fresh De- 
claration of Independence — independence over a dead and dreary 
past. 

In this great work of reconciliation, the Old Guard of the 
North and the East played no less vital or cordial a part than 
did the Old Guard from the South. 

Just such scenes as mark Atlanta, this day were enacted then 
in Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, Hart- 
ford and in every other city where the Southerners paused in their 
long tour of good will. The streets were lined with cheering 
thousands. There were banqueting and warm hand grasps on 
every side, hospitality brimmed over and the visitors were made 
to feel that they were truly at home with their own people. 

Such was the achievement of October, 1879, and the magnani- 
mous work then begun is now consummated. The spirit of frater- 
nalism and national oneness that swept into being in that autumn 
of long ago is given outward form and perpetuated in the bronze 
memorial that stands at the entrance-way of Piedmont Park. 
Through hundreds of years to come that heroic group which 
symbolizes the Spirit of Peace Forbidding War will testify to 
the broad vision and the great-heartedness of the Old Guard 
whom we honor today; not only the Old Guard of the South, but 
equally those brave, good men of the North and East. 

This city and this entire section is honored in having so many 
of their number as its guests on this gracious occasion. We 
extend to them the same welcome and handgrip that they gave to 
the South thirty-two years ago. 

On Tuesday evening the Grand Opera House, the Forsyth and 
the Lyric tendered box seats to the officers of the visiting military 
organizations, and the audiences for once were as glittering and 
brilliant as anything on the other side of the footlights. Manager 
Cordoza, of the Forsyth, had among his guests Mayor Reyburn, 
of Philadelphia, and the officers of the State Fencibles and the 
Fifth Maryland. 

A reception held the same evening at the University Club 
was given in honor of Gov. Simeon Eben Baldwin, of Connecticut. 
Bright music was played and the scene was made brilliant by the 
uniforms of the members of visiting troops, the Old Guard, the 
State Fencibles, the Ancient and Honorables, the Fifth, Maryland, 
Boston Light Infantry, Putnam Phalanx, Governor's Foot Guard 
of Connecticut, and the officers of the Department of the Gulf and 
Atlanta and Georgia Regiments. 



1911 FENCIBLES LEAVE ATLANTA 415 

On Wednesday several score of the South 's most beautiful 
young women, tastefully go\\Tied and wearing American Beauty 
roses, pinned bronze souvenirs of the unveiling exercises of the 
Peace Monument upon the breasts of Northern military men — some 
of them grizzled warriors who fought the South in the sixties — 
other, debonair young officers in new uniforms, with gold braid and 
polished sabers. 

The ceremonies which formed a beautiful climax to the imveiling 
exercises, took place on the flowered terrace of the Piedmont Driv- 
ing Club, beneath the diffused rays of a Southern sun, softened by 
a screen of thin clouds. Charming Atlant<i .young ladies and ma- 
trons, with their typical winning grace, flitted from officer to officer, 
pinning roses and badges on their breasts, while an orchestra from 
the far North played Southern airs. 

The medals were presented by the Ladies of the Decoration on 
behalf of the Old Guard of the Gate City Guard. As each medal 
was presented the ladies gave the military men envelopes con- 
taining cards on which were words expressive of the sentiment of 
the occasion. 

Over 100 members of the Fifth Maryland Regiment were pres- 
ent. The Richmond Blues were largely represented, as were the 
State Fencibles, the Ancient and Honorable Artillery of Massa- 
chusetts, the Old Guard of New York and other organizations. 

During the day the Fencibles visited the new United States 
Prison, State Capitol, Piedmont Driving Club, many of the parks 
and nearby cotton plantations. 

A reception by the Ancient and Honorable Artillery of Massa- 
chusetts at the Piedmont Hotel, from 8 to 10 o'clock, to all com- 
missioned officers of local and visiting organizations, city officials 
and visiting ladies, was also attended by the Fencibles. 

At midnight the Fencibles marched out of the Armory to the 
Southern Railroad Station, paying its final respects to the City of 
Atlanta, whose generous hospitality made the short sojouni so 
pleasant and enjoyable. At 2 A. ]\I. the "Special" left the depot, 
scheduled to stop at Spartanburg at 10 A. M., Thursday. October 
12th. 

Atlanta Constitution, Oct. 13th, 1911. 

The State Fencibles of Philadelphia, scheduled to leave the city 
at 5.30 yesterday morning, were carried out on their special 
train at 2. instead. They were scheduled to stop over in 



416 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 

Spartanburg, Charlotte, and possibly one other town in North 
Carolina, for an hour or so, and for this reason decided to move 
sooner than they had planned. 

Their stay in each town will be short, allowing the famous or- 
ganization time enough to take part in parades through the 
business sections. 

Both Major Brazer and Adjutant Lanard were enthusiastic over 
the entertainment given them while here, and both expressed the 
hope that it will be possible for the Fencibles, at no distant date, 
to prove to Atlanta that they not only appreciate her hospitality, 
but will take great delight in entertaining her soldier boys and 
her prominent citizens. 

The first stop made by the Command was at Spartanburg, S. C, 
where they were greeted by an enthusiastic crowd. 

The Journal, Spartanburg, S. C, said: 

Clad in brilliant red coats, the State Fencibles of Philadelphia, 
marched through the streets of Spartanburg. 

Headed by a string of automobiles, carrying the members of the 
Select and Common Councils, the State Fencible Band, four com- 
panies of soldiers and members of the Old Guard marclied from 
the Southern Station through Magnolia Street, Morgan Square 
and out East Main Street as far as Pine, and back to Morgan 
Square. 

When the Morgan monument was reached the companies were 
drawn into line. Secretary John Wood, of the Chamber of Com- 
merce, then gave a few words of welcome to the Fencibles. When 
he concluded his remarks he introduced Jolm Gary Evans, former 
Governor of South Carolina, who delivered an address of welcome 
in behalf of the city of Spartanburg. He was followed by Dr. 
H. N. Snyder, president of Wofford College, who delivered a 
welcome address in behalf of the Chamber of Commerce. Both 
Mr. Evans and Dr. Snyder were frequently applauded during their 
remarks. 

The addresses of welcome were responded to by Edward James 
Cattell, of Philadelphia. Mr. Cattell told of the pleasure it gave 
the Fencibles and the members of his party to visit Spartanburg. 
He closed his address by paying a high tribute to Southern 
womanhood and the girls of the South. He was loudly cheered by 
the big crowd that had gathered to welcome the Fencibles. 

Immediately after the address by Mr. Cattell the band played 
' ' Dixie, ' ' and a mighty shout from hundreds of throats rent the 
air. The band next played the ' ' Star Spangled Banner, ' ' and 
when the first note was sounded hundreds of hats were lifted, a 
custom that has become universal throughout the country. 

Before resuming the march to the railway station, the Fenci- 
bles went through a drill and received much applause. 



1911 FENCIBLES AT CHARLOTTE 417 

The Spartanburg Herald said: 

The Fencibles, in resplendent uniforms glittering in the brilliant 
South Carolina sunshine, paraded through the streets to the in- 
spiring strains of their own band, and executed military maneu- 
vers with clock-like i)recision in Morgan Square. 

They proceeded uj) Magnolia Street, and thence into East Main 
Street. Out this broad avenue of stores and offices, followed 
by handsome residences, the Philadelphianfe were taken. The 
sidewalks were lined with many people, who admired the red 
uniforms, pompous shakoes and burnished accoutrements of the 
Fencibles and listened with pleasure to the martial music. 

The Fencibles, accompanied by Mayor Reyburn and othci- nota- 
bles from Philadelphia, arrived at Charlotte on Thursday. October 
12th, at 2 P. M., over the Southern Railway from Spartanburg, 
S. C, and were met at the depot by Mayor C. A. Bland and other 
representatives of the City government, and by the Coast Artillery 
Company, the Hornets' Nest Riflemen, the Charlotte Drum Corps, 
First Infantry, Second Infantry, and other military officials. 

After greetings had been exchanged between INIayor Reyburn 
and Mayor Bland, and the officers of the Fencibles and the local 
companies, the line of march over the City was begun. 

Charlotte Daily Observer, Charlotte, N. C, Oct. 13th, 1911, said: 

In a parade which for brilliance and splendor is scarcely 
equalled in the history of Charlotte, the State Fencibles of Phila- 
delphia marched into the heart of the city yesterday and took 
possession peacefully. Bearing them escort of honor the Char- 
lotte Drum Corps and a battalion of local trooj)s strode at the 
head of the line of march, preceded only by mounted jjolicemen. 
The martial procession was witnessed by many luindreds who were 
thrilled with the beauty of the spectacle of magnificently costumed 
troops marching with perfect precision to the strains of inspiring 
music. It was a sight to stir the heart and awaken long- 
dormant emotions in the breasts of the most blase. It was as 
though a small segment of England 's sumptuous coronation pa- 
rade had been detached and imported for Charlotte 's delectation. 

Promptly at 2 p. m. the special train bearing tlie State Fenci- 
bles and the city officials of Philadelphia, reached the yards of the 
Southern Railway. Drawn up to receive the visitors were: a bat- 
talion of Charlotte troops under the command of Capt. W. R. 
Robertson, composed of the Hornets' Nest Riflemen under the 
command of Captain John A. Parker, with Lieutenant Rufus 
Johnston, and the Battery A of the Fifth Coast Artillery, com- 
27 



418 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

manded by Captain W. M. Robey, with Lieutenants C. B. Ross 
and C. E. Hobbs; the Cliarlotte Drum Corps, led by Mr. "William 
Summerville, with the battalion also was Captain F. L. Blocks. 

Forming at the lower end of the depot, and preceded by the 
band of 30 pieces, the State Fencibles, under the command 
of Major Brazer, personally escorted by Major T. F. Whitted of 
the engineer corps of the Governor 's staff, marched to the inter- 
section of West Trade Street, and headed the procession to the 
intersection of West Trade and Graham Streets, where they 
halted and, awaited the coming of the local troops. 

Led by the drum corps, followed the local battalion. Next 
came a company of the ' ' Old Guard ' ' of the Philadelphia com- 
pany, men who had retired from active membership after many 
years of service. This company was headed by a color bearer, 
carrying the State flag of Pennsylvania, together with the Stars 
and Stripes. Next marched the band of 30 pieces, followed closely 
by the two companies from the Quaker City, led by Major Brazer, 
who was personally escorted by Major T. F. Whitted, of the 
engineer corps of the Governor's staff. 

Following the military portion of the parade rolled a line of 
automobiles, carrying the city officials of Charlotte, and repre- 
sentatives from Common and Select Councils of Philadelphia. 
This portion of the parade was headed by a machine in which 
was Mayor C. A. Bland, E. R. Preston and Joseph Garibaldi. 

To almost continuous music from the apparently tireless band 
which headed the Fencibles, intermingled with the sound of music 
and drums from the local corps, the parade pursued its way to 
the heart of the city, amid scenes of enthusiasm. Turning at 
Independence Square, it continued down South Tryon so far as 
Third, where it proceeded eastward to College, up College to 
Fourth, back up Fourth to Tryon and the square. Through great 
throngs of people who had gathered at this point, it con- 
tinued down East Trade Street until College was reached for 
the second time. From there it continued up College to East 
Sixth, up Sixth to North Tryon, and thence through the square 
and down West Trade Street to the Southern Manufacturers' 
Club, where arms were stacked, and the parade disbanded. 

Upon the steps of the Club were gathered a number of the city 
officials and officers of the social organization, who bade the 
visitors welcome to the informal reception at which they were 
to be the guests of honor during the remainder of their stay in 
the city. Within the parlors of the club there were gathered a 
brilliant assembly of many of the most prominent citizens of 
Charlotte. After short speeches of welcome from Mayor C. A. 
Bland and Mr. E. Randolph Preston, Mr. Cattell in his official 
capacity as- representative of Mayor Reyburn, returned thanks to 
the city of Charlotte and the Southern Manufacturers ' Club, for 



1911 FENCIBLES AT CHARLOTTE 4^9 

tlie welcome which the party had received in the Queen City. 
After a stay of an hour as the guests of the club and the city, 
the visitors returned to their special train, leaving tiie Southern 
jards at 4 o 'clock. 

Seldom has Charlotte experienced the ])leasure of entertaining 
a more representative body of men tlian was represontod in yes- 
terday's array of the Philadelphia State Fencibles. Kocruited 
from the most prominent families of the Quaker City, and with 
each man, whether private or oflicer, a gentleman, this military or- 
ganization of breeding and culture, is in a class "which is all 
its own." It is neither answerable to the Governor of the State 
of Pennsylvania for its services, nor to the President of tiie 
United States. The Mayor of the City of Philadelphia alone 
commands the power to summon its aid. For many years it has 
occupied a position which is unique in the military world. The 
occasion which gave Charlotte an opportunity of beholding the 
State Fencibles, was the recently concluded peace jubilee of 
Atlanta, Ga., where this battalion was sent as official representa- 
tives of their home city for the purpose of returning the visit 
which was made by the Gate City Guards of Atlanta, some 33 
years past. 

A marked evidence of the unusual spirit of the Fencibles was 
their action as they passed the home of Mrs. ' ' Stonewall ' ' Jackson, 
on West Trade Street, on their return to tlie depot. Lining up 
in front of the residence of the widow of the distinguished 
Southern General, the battalion uncovered, while the band played 
"Dixie" and "The Star Spangled Banner." 

It will be long before the city has visitors more acceptable 
than the State Fencibles of the city of Philadelphia. 

The Chronicle, October 12th, 1911. 

The uniforms of the Fencibles were most imposing. With their 
high shakos, and long coats of red, the Fencibles jircscnted an , 

appearance of dignity and military superiority which at once drew 
the attention of the thousands who were on the streets to witness 
the parade. 

Besides their band, a crack organization, there were about 100 y 

of the Fencibles, in the uniforms described above, and in front ) 

of these marched the Old Guard in regulation uniforms of dark j 

blue. .( 

The entire i)arade covered at least two blocks, and afforded 
a rare opportunity to the spectators to witness one of the most 
exclusive and widest known military organizations of the country. 

It was in the neighborhood of seven o'clock in the evening when 
the train rolled into Danville, to tind the entire City there await- 
ing them. 



420 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1911 
The Danville Register said : 

The States of Pennsylvania and Virginia, the cities of Phila- 
delphia and Danville, met and greeted each other with a cordial- 
ity inspiring to the thoughtful and patriotic people of both, 
through their representatives, the city officials, and the State 
Fencibles, on the one hand, and the Danville Light Infantry, 
representing the citizen soldiery of Virginia and the Mayor and 
officials of the city of Danville. 

The occasion for this fraternization of the representatives of 
two commonwealths and two municipalities v^as the stop of 
three hours of the historic State Fencibles, magnificently uni- 
formed and admirably drilled battalion, and the presidents of 
the two branches of the Philadelphia Council and other officials 
of that city, all on their way home from Atlanta. The Fencibles 
were accompanied by their splendid band of thirty instruments. 
The Danville Light Infantry was escorted by the Old Dominion 
Band resplendent in their handsome new uniforms. 

The three-hours ' stay of the Quaker City visitors was a busy one. 
Upon detraining at the railway station, the visitors were met 
by committees from the Councils, the Commercial Association, 
and the local military, and Avere escorted uptown in a spectacular 
pageant through brilliantly illuminated streets, garnished with 
the national colors at frequent intervals. The civilian contingent 
rode in a dozen automobiles, accompanied by local officials, leading 
the marching division of the pageant. At the junction of West 
Main and South Main Streets the marching column halted, and 
the Fencibles executed some pretty maneuvers with fine precision, 
their brilliant uniforms contributing warmth and color to the 
moving spectacle. Thence the march was resumed in reverse 
order to the municipal building, where a light collation had been 
prepared for the city 's guests. There a brief informal programme 
of welcoming and responsive addresses was had, cheers and 
compliments were exchanged, and the visiting band delighted the 
audience with several selections played with spirit and brilliancy. 
After the luncheon, and the parting greetings, the visitors were 
escorted to their train and left at 12.10 A. M. for their homes. 

At the suggestion of a public-spirited lady, the residents along 
the route of the parade illuminated their piazzas and residences 
and added much to the brilliancy of the march and the popular 
enjoyment of it. 

While the visitors were in the Municipal Hall souvenirs of Dan- 
ville were distributed among them, these consisting of leaves of 
yellow wrapper-leaf tobacco with an illustrated brochure, descrip- 
tive of the city and its industries. 

On the arrival of the Fencibles at "Washington, they were met 
at the new terminal station with five large 40-passenger autos. 



1911 FENCIBLES AT WASHINGTON 421 

Among the many plaoes visited during the short stay were, Smith- 
sonian Institution, containing many scientific works; Peace Monu- 
ment, at the foot of Capitol Hill ; the State, War and Navy 
Building, the Capitol, Library of Congress, Washington Monument; 
along Pennsylvania Avenue and through the principal residential 
sections of the city. The tour lasted about three hours. At 1.45 
the Command left Washington for Philadelphia. 

The closing event of the year 1911, was the presence of the Fen- 
eibles at the dedication of the "House of Business" (the new store 
of John Wanamaker in the city of Philadelphia), by the President 
of the United States. Among others present were the Governor of 
the State of Pennsylvania, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, 
Judges of the Supreme, Superior and other Courts, and many lead- 
ing military men from the State of Pennsylvania. 



CAWVTVAl XXTT. 
1912—1913. 

OPENIN(J OF A CKOSCKKOIIS VIOAK — IM IIU.ISI I [NO AN ACXJOITN'!' OF TIIK 
VISIT TO ATLANTA — INSPKCTION — ANNIVIOKSAKY PARADIO — BANQUET 

VISIT TO NEW YORK AND NEW II AVEN— FENCH5LES IN THE IIIS- 

TORICAIi I'AOrOANT I'I;ANS AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR TIIK CKLEBRA- 

TION OF ONIO IIHNDRKDTII ANNIVERSARY. 

The yen r 1912, opened witli iiiueli jictivity 1 lirou^'lioiit the entire 
T*>jitl;tli()M. T\ic r(!eet)t trip 1,[iroij}^li llie South stinmhited the (entire 
iiieinhership. The drills were well jiltended jitid the ('oniiruuid was 
(;ompliiii('ii1ed froiri iiuiriy (pi;n'ters on its he.dtliy condition. 

At a nieetinfij in January of th(! lioard of Offieers, (Japt. and Adjt. 
Thornas S. Tjanard was re(|U(!sted to write; and i)ublish a short ac- 
count of Ihe re(;ent visit of the Pencibles to Atlanta in ()ctol)er, 
1911. On May 2r)th, 1912, this book appeared in a beautiful 200- 
pa^c edition, fully illustrated and handsomely bound, giving' in de- 
tail the itinerary and a bri(;f skcitch of Ihe unveilinj^ of the Peaces 
Monument. Thesi; books wen; distributed with the compliments of 
the (yommand to all the officers and members of the Battalion par- 
ticipating in said trip, also to the oflicers of the several com- 
mands present at Atlanta.* 

Tlu! most important event of the early spring of 1912, was tin; 
insp<'(!ti()n by the; new Direr^tor of Public Safc^ty George 1). i'orter, 
on May 2;}rd, when the enlire Battalion was present with Ihe band. 

On May 25th, o(;curred Uw. parade in cominemoration of the 
99th anniversary of th(! Fenc^ibles. 

or the occasion the Kvctihif) liiiUcliti said: 

The liir.'iiilry l^ntt.-ilion of SIjiIc I<\>n<'il)lcH, vvilli (Ik- ''Old 
Guard" in line, will iiuirk its ninety-ninth ariniverH.-ny tliiH nf'tcr- 
noon with a parade iu the center of the city. 

•ThiH book in entitledl "Infantry lUittiilloii Stiilc FcnclbloM, and Its visit to Atlanta 
and other Southern OltleH, 1911." 

422 



iniL' ITINERARY NKW IIAVKN TRIP 4.);{ 

As tlu« iiroci'ssioii p.-iNscs the Union I ,c;i>,mi.'. it will lie r.'\ ii'wcil 
by Mayor iilaiikonburn nnd Director i'ortor, of I lie Dcii.ntiniMit 
of Public Safety. A baiKiiiot follows tiio parade. 

The parade will start from the Armory, Hroad and K'ace 
Sts., at \\.\') o'clock, and will jiass down Hroad St., to Pino, 
tlienco to KUh St., to Ciie.stnut, to iltli, to Nrarket. return to 
Broad St.. and thence to the Arnuuy. 

The b:ni(|uet will be IkUiI in tiie iMiyineers' Club, \:\\7 Sjirnce 
St., at 7 o'clock. The .Mayor and Director Porter arc auu)n>^ 
thoS(> e.\|iec1e(l. Covers will hi- laid for lUr). 

There will be toasts to the President of the United States, to the 
Governor of Pennsylvania, and to the Mayor of this city. The 
listed addresses are as follows: 

"To the KornuM- ('ouunanders of the Stale Peucibl(>s, " Majiu- 
Thurber T. Pra/.er; "The City of Phila(leli)hia, " Mayor Hlanken- 
burjj; "The Constituted Authorities," Director Porter. "The 
Fonc.ibles as a Civic Institution," Joseph P. Tlodjjers; "Coniiii<r 
Events Cast Their Shadows Before," Georfje W. Kdinonds; 
"The Recollections of a Veteran," Colonel Alexander M. Apjx'l; 
"The Trip to Atlanta," Edward .lames Cattell, Chief of t he 
Bureau of Statistics, and "Our Ai)proaching Centennial Anni 
versary, " Ca'ptain Thonuis S. Lanard. 

The bancpiet will be under the charj^e of the follow in;; coin 
mittee: Walt(>r J. Warner, cliairinan; Captiiin Samuel II. K. 
Shaffer, secretary; Captain .lolin II. Dciincr, treasurer; Major 
Emanuel Furth, Major U. P. Schellin^^cr, hiiMitenanl 1\ K. 
Worley and Captain R. ,1. Thompson. 

The siiinnu'r cncjuiipiiicnt for 1012 w;is al)inul()in'<l in oimIcm* to 
give the incinhcrs ;m oppotM unity to visit New Iliivcii (liirinoc Xcw 
Iliivcii Week, ;m(l ('apt. imd Adjt. TlioiiiM.s S. I.;miir(l \v;is dctjiilcd 
to procfcd to .Xcw York nnd New IliiV(-n. in .\iii,Mist. to u\i\kv the 
nei'cssjiiy nrraiijjfciiicnts for tiic trip, and tlic t'ollowinji; itinerary- 
was arrang^ed : 

Wkdnesdav, Ski'tkmukr 17. 

Leave Philadelphia (Reading Terminal) 9.:U) A. M. 

Arrive New York 1 l.oo A. .M. 

Leave New York, 1.00 P, M. 

Arrive New Haven, 2A'y P. M. 

inOAI)yiI.\RTKKS IKITKI, ■[\\\'"V. 

Automobile ride through New Haven 4.00 P. M. 

TllI'KSD.W, SKI"I'KMI!KK IS. 

Visit to Yale College, 9..10 A. M. 

Dinner at Yale College, 12.00 Noon. 



424 ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1912 

Parade, 2.00 P. M. 

Banquet, 6.00 P. M. 

Display College Green, 8.30 P. M. 

Reception by Governor Baldwin, '. . . 10.30 P. M. 

Friday, September 19. 

Leave New Haven, 9.30 A. M. 

Arrive at New York, 11.30 A. M. 

Auto Sight Seeing Tour, 12.00 Noon. 

Dinner, 1.30 P.M. 

Visit to Hippodrome, 2.15 P. M. 

Leave New York, 7.00 P. M. 

Arrive Philadelphia, 9.00 P. M. 

The Evening Bulletin said of the departure of the Fencibles : 

The State Fencibles of this city left this morning on a special 
train for New Haven, Conn., where they will participate in the 
climax of the celebration of ' ' Old Home Week, ' ' the feature of 
which will be a parade tomorrow afternoon of many of the oldest 
military organizations in the country. More than 1,400 men will 
be in line, and among the battalions to be present are the Ancient 
and Honorable Artillery Company, of Boston ; the Old Guard, 
of New York, and the Richmond Blues. 

During their stay in New Haven the Fencibles will be the guests 
of the Second Company, Governor's Footguard. This command 
was organized December 28, 1774, and Benedict Arnold was its 
first captain. The company has had a continuous existence and 
has given good service in every war from the Revolution to the 
Spanish- American. 

Led by their magnificent band, one of the best in the country, 
the Fencibles left their Armory shortly after 9 o'clock this morn- 
ing and marched down Broad St. to Chestnut, east on that thor- 
oughfare to 11th, then north to the Reading Terminal, where 
their special train of six Pullman cars was waiting. 

About 125 men were in line, with Major Thurber T. Brazer 
in command. All the rank and file wore the blue trousers, red 
coats and big black shakos, the uniform of the Fencibles for over 
a half century. 

On their arrival at New Haven this afternoon, the Fencibles 
will be met by the Second Company of the Governor's Footguards 
and escorted to the Hotel Taft, where they will be entertained. 
Later in the afternoon they M'ill be taken on a motor tour of 
New Haven. Tonight the Fencibles will be the guests of honor 
at a dinner to be given by the Footguard at the Hotel Taft. 




towiN JOHN- PRiTrie t3 



1912 FENCIBLES IN NEW HAVEN 425 

The other old military organizations wliich will tako part in tlic 
celebration will reach New Haven tomorrow niorninfj. All will 
lunch in the spacious dining hall of Yale University as the guests 
of Governor Baldwin and his staff. Afilitary maneuvers on the 
Yale campus and a parade through the streets of New Haven will 
follow the luncheon. Tomorrow night there will he a display of 
fireworks on the New Haven green, followed l)y a receiition by 
Governor Baldwin to the visiting organizations. 

The Fencibles will leave for home at 9 o'clock Friday morning, 
but will stop over a few hours in New York, being due to reach the 
Reading Terminal about 9. .30 o'clock. They will march out Market 
St. to Broad and thence along Broad to their Armory. 

The Morning Journal-Courier, New Ilaveu, Sept. 19th, 'ilTJ. 

It might have been that the full dress uniform worn by the 
State Fencibles of Philadelphia, the crack company of Pennsyl- 
vania, that brought the down-pour of rain which greeted the first 
company to arrive yesterday for the great New Haven Week cele- 
bration, for it is an inviolable tradition of the Fencibles that it 
always rains whenever they wear their handsome full dress. About 
70 or 80 of them arrived at Union station at 3 o 'clock yesterday 
afternoon in their special car, which left Philadelphia at 9. .30. 
Crowds of people greeted them upon their arrival and all along 
the line of march to the Hotel Taft, where they will be stationed 
until Friday morning. 

A detail of police and 17 members of the Governor's Foot 
Guard were on hand to meet the visitors. When all had detrained 
the detail of Foot Guard, led by Adjutant Third Tjieutenant Henry 
K. Lines, who acted as marshal, escorted them through the city to 
the hotel. 

Directly following, marched the Fencibles' band, led by their 
leader, Sergeant Daniel W. Lanard, Jr., followed by 17 squads, 
eight abreast, of brilliantly uniformed Fencibles. Nothing quite so 
dazzling has been seen in this city in years. They were eijuipped 
with long red coats, gaily decorated with gold epaulettes, and 
aiglets of the same metal, and dark blue trousers striped with 
bands of gold. They carried muskets at ease. But the most 
prominent item of the effulgent ensemble was the tall shako, 
fashioned of black fur, and almost covering the countenances of 
the soldiers. 

Major Thurber T. Brazer, commander of the com])any, led the 
force, followed by Adjutant Captain Thomas S. Lanard, Major 
Emanuel Furth, commanding the Old Guard of the State Fenci- 
bles, and the most distinguished ollicer of the entire com|)any, 
and it might be said the lithest and most nimble on his feet; 
Captain and Quartermaster Edward E. Packer, for fifty-eight years 
a member of the company. Captain Packer wore on his breast 



426 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1912 

the gold medal presented by General Lafayette, the golden em- 
blem, with its six golden bars, the first indicating the first five 
years of service, and the others representing each successive ten 
years of service. This was presented him as the oldest parading 
soldier in the company. Captain Packer has seen service in many 
important engagements of the Civil War, and it is doubtful if 
there will be a military man here for the celebration who will be 
able to measure up to him in distinction of years and service. 

Commanding the company were Captain John Garcia and 
Captain Edwin J. Prittie. 

With such an array of color and sparkling uniform it is slight 
wonder that they attracted more than usual attention as they 
proceeded up Meadow Street to Church to Chapel, thence to the 
Hotel Taft. Shop windows, factories, business houses held their 
throngs of persons, but there was no noticeable lack of enthusiastic 
demonstration on the part of the witnesses to this display of 
soldiery. 

The Foot Guarders in their dress uniform of dark blue lent 
the subdued note to the little procession, as they marched before 
the Fencibles with Major Albert M. Johnson, retired, and Captain 
George A. Tucker to the fore. 

On arriving at the Taft the Fencibles were greeted by Major 
George T. Hewlett, Major W. P. Tuttle, Captain J. B. Kennedy, 
and the three executive officers of the New Haven Day celebration, 
Joseph C. Johnson, George M. Hayes, and Frederick D. Adams. 
Major Brazer was presented to the guests by Major Hewlett. 
The members then retired to the headquarters in the ballroom 
where they doffed their uniforms preparatory to the automobile 
tour around the city, which the inclement weather threatened to 
postpone. 

However at 4 o 'clock the rain abated and the Fencibles were 
taken in closed autos, fifty in number furnished by the Foot 
Guard members. Captain John B. Kennedy was in charge of 
this tour. 

At the Strouse-Adler company miniature corsets were given 
the Fencibles as souvenirs; the Winchester Repeating Arms 
company presented them with target buttons ; the L. Candee Rub- 
ber Co., tiny rubber boots, and the Hoggson, Pettis Manufacturing 
Co., pretty medallions, with the inscription, "Old Elms, New 
Ideas. ' ' 

The route of the automobile ride included every point of histor- 
ical interest in the city. Many places of industry have also been 
included, and after traversing the route the visiting company 
should return to their native State with an excellent idea of 
beautiful and industrial New Haven. 

On the route the Noah Webster house on Grove and Temple 
Streets will be visited. The course will take the visitors by the 



1912 PENCIBLES IN NEW HAVEN 4,)7 

new county court house, pu])lic lihiaiy and all of tlie otlier latest 
public and private biiildinjrs about the center of New Haven. 

Bay View Park at City Point, Defenders' Park at Contfress and 
Columbus Avenues, Buslinell Park at Winthrop and Chapel Streets, 
Edgewood Park and East Rock Park will be visited and the his- 
torical interest of the places reviewed to the Fencibles. 

Among the factories along the line of travel will be the Win- 
chester repeating Arms company, the largest firearm and ammu- 
nition factory in the world. 

In the evening the members of the Fencibles were informally 
entertained by the Foot Guard in Room 117 of the Taft. Earlier 
in the evening Major George T. Hewlett of the Foot Guard en- 
tertained Major Thurber T. Brazer and iiis staif. Twelve per- 
sons were at the table, including Lieut. Van Ard, Captains Lar- 
kins and Tuttle of the Foot Guard, Captain Lines and Captain 
Kennedy of the same organization. Captain Davis of the Fenci- 
bles, Adjutant Lanard of the Fencibles, Lieutenants Prittie and 
Kutcher of the Fencibles and Captain Greene of the same com- 
pany. 

Among the several famous Historic Commands present on this 
occasion and participating in the parade with the Sixth Division 
were the following: 

Independent Military Organizations. 

Second Company Governor's Foot Guard, New Haven, Conn., 
George T. Hewlett, commanding, (1775). 

Richmond Light Infantry Blues, Richmond, Va., Major Edgar 
W. Bowles, commanding, (1793). 

Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, Boston, Mass., 
Captain Francis H. Appleton, commanding, (1638). 

First Company Governor's Foot Guard, Hartford, Conn., Major 
Frank L. Wilcox, commanding, (1771). 

Veteran Corps of Artillery, S. N. Y., New York City, Col. Asa 
Bird Gardner, commanding, (1790). 

Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, Philadelphia, Pa., Major 
Thurber T. Brazer, commanding, (1813). 

First Light Infantry Regiment, Providence, R. I., Col. Wm. 
M. P. Bowen, commanding, (1818). 

The Old Guard, New York City, Major S. Ellis Briggs, com- 
manding, (1826). 

The National Lancers, Boston, Mass., Capt. Charles B. Appleton, 
commanding, (1836). 

Putnam Phalanx, Hartford, Conn., Major E. C. Bigelow, com- 
manding, (1848). 

Worcester Continentals, Worcester, Mass., Lieut. Col. J. Edmund 
Thompson, commanding, (1876). 



428 0^'E HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1912 

Varnum Contineiitals, East Greenwich, E. I., Capt. Wui. M. 
Owen, commanding, (1907). 

At the conehision of the parade on Thursday the following 
order was published : 

headquarters 
Second Company Governor's Foot Guard. 

September 19. 1912. 
Orders 
No. 10. 

The banquet will be served this evening at 6 p. m. and the 
following order will be observed in entering the banquet hall, 
the tables being marked for the different commands: 
Officers, United States Navy, 
Officers, Naval Militia, 
Officers, National Guard, 
Kichmond Light Infantry Blues, 
Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co., 
First Company, Governor's Foot Guard, 
Veteran Corps, Artillery, S. N. Y.. 
Infantry Battalion State Fencibles, 
Newport Artillery, 
First Light Infantry Regiment, 
The Old Guard, 
The National Lancers, 
Putnam Phalanx, 
Worcester Continentals, 
Yarnum Continentals, 
New Haven Day Committee. 

By order of Major George T. Hewlett, 

William P. Tuttle, 
Captain and Commissanj. 

The Command left New Haven at 9.30 A. M.. on the morning of 
September 19th, and arrived in New York Citj- about noon. On 
the arrival, they viewed the city from the sight-seeing Autos, and at 
1.30 P. M.. dinner was served. A visit to the Hippodrome com- 
pleted the days entertainment. Leaving the city at 7 o'clock, they 
arrived in Philadelphia two hours later. 

The next event of importance was the part played by the Fenci- 
bles in the Historical Pageant during October in which a company 
was presented at each performance, covering more than one week. 

The following is an extract from the book of the Pageant pub- 
lished by the director. Ellis Paxson Oberholtzer. which was pre- 
sented October 7th to 12th, 1912, at Belmont Plateau. Fairmount 
Park. 



'A — 

d - 





1912 FENCIBLES IN THE PAGEANT 429 

Episodes of the Pageant. 
Prologue: Exploration and Settlement. 
Episode I: 

Scene I. The Coming of William Penii. 

Scene II. The Granting of the Charter to Pennsylvania. 
Episode II: 

The Keturn of the Tea Ship ' ' Polly. ' ' 
Episode III: 

Scene I. Arrival of the Delegates to the Continental Congress. 

Scene II. The Declaration of Independence. 
Episode IV: 

Scene I. The Battle of Germantown. 

Scene II. The British in Philadelphia. 

Scene III. The Meschiauza. 
Episode V: 

Franklin at the Court of France. 
Episode VI: 

Scene I. The Federal Procession. 

Scene II. President Washington at Gray 's Gardens. 

Scene III. Echoes of the Frencii Kevolutiou. 
Episode VII: 

The War of 1812. 
Episode VIII: 

Lafayette's Reception. 
Epilogue: 

The Gathering of the Districts. 

The following historical note will serve to explain the part played 
by the Fencibles in this Pageant. 

The establishment of a national feeling was difficult until after 
a second war with Great Britain. French and English sympathies 
which had formed a dividing ground for parties for years then 
made way for a strong native sentiment and for some purely 
American Ideals. Embargoes and non-intercourse acts, outrages 
upon shipping at sea led in 1812 to open hostilities. Armed 
vessels went out and came into the Delaware. The heroes of sea 
battles were honored by the people. The town of Lewes was 
bombarded in 1813 and some companies of volunteers under Briga- 
dier General Joseph Bloomfield started south to protect the ap- 
proaches of the city. The news of the landing of the army, the 
sack of Washington and the advance upon Baltimore in the next 
year created the greatest excitement. Able bodied citizens went 
out each morning to work uijon the redoubts which were planned to 
guard the southern roads. The militiamen, formed into pictur- 
esque companies, prominent among which was one still in existence 
at this day, the State Fencibles — went into camp ready for duty 
at need. At the last unsuccessful bombardment of Fort McHenry 



430 ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1912 

and the defeat of the invading army near Baltimore caused great 
rejoicing and Philadelphia was safe. 

CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

General Edmund Pendleton Gaines. 

General Bloomfield. 

General Thomas Cadwalader. 

General Isaac Worrell. 

Colonel Clement C. Biddle.* 

Stephen Girard. 

David Parish, and other citizens. 

Messengers. 

State FencibleSjf Washington Guards, and other militia com- 
panies. 

A mob of men, women and children. 

The arena represents a square in the city. The scene is sug- 
gested by one of Krimmel 's pictures of a Philadelphia crowd at 
this period. Military companies are marching and there is much 
commotion. Prominent among these are the newly formed State 
Fencibles and the Washington Guards, a crack Federalist com- 
pany. A procession of men with spades and mattocks thrown 
over their shoulders, and food in knapsacks on their backs, start 
off for work on the redoubts. 

The horn of an express is heard. He comes up to the front of 
the field and shouts, * ' The British have landed at North Point ! 
They are headed for Baltimore ! ' ' 

Shouts of derision and defiance. Men seize arms. The militia 
companies pass off as though going to the w'ar, the women waving 
their farewells. 

In a little while another express rides in on a foaming steed. 
The people press around him. He shouts, * * The British have been 
defeated at North Point, and their general, Lord Eoss, is killed ! ' ' 
Cheers are heard on all sides. ' ' Huzza for the brave Baltimore- 
ans ! " " Our city is safe ! ' ' etc. An old ' ' seventy-sixer ' ' waves 
his hands and is followed by a crowd of boys as he goes off to 
announce the news in other parts of the city. The militia com- 
panies again come upon the field bearing the American flag. The 
bands play the first chords of the ' ' Star Spangled Banner. ' ' 

The Evening Telegraph, of October 9th, in speaking of the Pa- 
geant said: 

In the full glamour of thousands of incandescent bulbs and 
two huge swaying searchlights, the first night performance of the 
pageant was given last night, in the presence of more than 
20,000 persons. 

*This character was impersonated by Captain Edw. E. Parker of ttie Fencibles. 
fThe State Fencibles were represented by tbeir active members. 



1913 CENTENNIAL OF STATE FENCIBLES 4:^1 

Night and electricity acted like a fairy {jodinother to the 
actors. ***** 

The feature of last night's production was the marching of tlie 
State Fencibles in the scene showing conditions during the War 
of 1812. Perfectly clad and drilled, the present representatives of 
the regiment made a splendid showing. 

Immediately after the close of the Pageant, the attention of the 
Battalion together with the Old Guard, was directed toward the 
Celebration of the Centennial of the Fencibles, which would occur 
May 26th, 1913. A meeting of the Board of Officers was called and 
the following committees were appointed: Advisory Board; Citi- 
zens' Committee; Committee on Finance; Committee on Enter- 
tainment ; Publication of History and Publicity Committee ; Music 
Committee. 

These committees at once began work and a meeting of the 
Citizens' Committee was called in the reception room of the office 
of the Mayor of the City of Philadelphia on ^Mareh 13th. 

The following is a copy of the notice sent to the members of said 
Committee : 

At the request of the The Infantry Battalion and Old Guard 
State Fencibles, I have the honor to name you as a member of the 
citizens' committee of arrangement and reception incident to the 
celebration of the Centennial Anniversary of the State Fencibles 
on May 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th next. 

It is anticipated that this occasion will be an interesting and 
historical incident of our municipal life entertaining alike to our 
citizens and the many visitors likely to be here at that time. 

A meeting of the committee will be held at the office of the 
Mayor on Wednesday the 12th day of March, 3.30 o'clock P. M., 
and you are earnestly requested to be present. 

EuDOLPH Blaxkexburg, 

Mayor. 

At the meeting Hon. Rudolph Blankenburg was elected Hon- 
orary Chairman; Hon. George D. Porter, Chairman; Fred. T. 
Chandler, Esq.. Treasurer, and William F. Gleason^ Esq., Secre- 
tary. 

The official invitation was at once issued to all the leading An- 
cient Military Commands in the thirteen original States. The fol- 
lowing is a copy of the invitation : 



432 ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 

The Infantry Battalion State Feneibles 

The Old Guard 

and 

The Citizens' Committee of the City of Philadelphia 

Request the honor of the presence of 



to participate in celebrating the 

Centennial of the State Feneibles 

May twenty-first, twenty-second, twenty-third and twenty-fourth 

nineteen hundred and thirteen 

at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

Thurber T. Brazer. 
Commanding Infantry Battalion State Feneibles. 

Emanuel Furth, 
Commanding Old Guard. 
Rudolph Blankenburg, 

Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, 
Honorary Chairman. 

Willl\m F. Gleason, 
Secretary of Committee. 
George D. Porter, 

Chairman of Citizens' Com.mittee. 

The Citizens' Committee then considered it advisable to finance 
the Celebration by popular subscription and caused the following 
notice to be sent to many of the business men and prominent 
citizens : 

The Citizens' Committee of Arrangement and Reception for tlie 
celebration of the Centennial Anniversary of The Infantry Corps 
State Feneibles, invite the co-operation of the citizens of Phila- 
delphia in bringing the affair to a successful issue and conducting 
it in a manner commensurate with the dignity and proverbial hos- 
pitality of this City. 

The celebration will be held during a period of four days, May 
21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th, next — and will bring to the City, as 
its guests, many of the most prominent military organizations in 
the United States. 

The Grand Military Parade and the various ceremonies con- 
nected with the celebration, illustrative of the "Citizen Soldier" 
from the earliest Colonial period to the present day, will attract 



I 



1913 CENTENNIAL OF STATE FENCIBLES 4;i3 

thousands of visitors and act as an inspiration to patriotism and 
civic pride. 

We are assured that the incidental expense will bo borne l)y tlie 
voluntary contributions of public-spirited citizens. We respect- 
fully suggest that you fill out the enclosed subscription blank, 
sending same to the Treasurer of the Committee, at your earliest 
convenience, and thus aid the Committee in its patriotic under- 
taking. Very truly yours, 

George D. Porter, 
Chairman. 
William F. Gleasok, 

Secretary. 
Fred. T. Chandler, 
Treasurer. 
Eudolph Blankenburg, 

Honorary Chairman. 

During the month of March, a meeting was held at the Armory 
of the entire active members and the Old Guard and the plan for 
celebrating the Centennial was made known. During the evening 
speeches were made by Hon. James E. Cattell ; William F. Gleason, 
Esq., Maj. Emanuel Furth and Capt. Thomas S. Lanard. A simi- 
lar meeting was held in April, at which George W. Carr, Esq., 
addressed the Command on the subject of the "Citizen Soldier." 

On April 5th, Captain and Adjutant Thomas S. Lanard was 
ordered to proceed to Atlanta, Charlotte, Danville, Richmond and 
Norfolk to assist the various commands in perfecting their ar- 
rangements to visit Philadelphia in May ; accordingly, on said day, 
he left the City and returned on April 14th, having received much 
encouragement from the Gate City Guard, of Atlanta, Ga., who 
were the guests of the Fencibles in 1879 and who entertained the 
Fencibles in Atlanta, in 1911, also from the Richmond Blues and 
Howitzers, and many other commands who contemplated visiting 
the City during the Celebration. 

The first newspaper notice of any importance regarding the 
celebration, was the Philada. Press, of March 17tli : 

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery, Governors' Guards, Rich- 
mond Blues and other historic military organizations in all the 
thirteen original States are to be invited to participate in the 
centennial celebration of the Infantry Battalion of the State 
Fencibles, May 21, 22, 23 and 24, according to plans adopted 
at a meeting held yesterday in the Mayor's office. 

The historic military guests are to parade witli all the trappings 
of shining brass and waving plumes which distinguish their uni- 
28 



434 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 

forms from the ordinary, and the Old Guard of the Fencibles 
is to don uniforms which will represent the evolution from the 
days of the War of 1812 and the War with Mexico, and there are 
to be bands celebrated throughout the land and a half week 
of military tactics and revelry and sociability. 

The Citizens' Committee in charge at its meeting yesterday 
adopted a tentative program providing for a reception on May 
21st, boat ride, shad dinner on the 22nd, a parade and banquet 
on the 23rd, and exercises at Independence Hall and a sight- 
seeing trip on the 24th. 

The Record of April 20th, 1913, said: 

The centennial Anniversary of the Infantry Battalion State 
Fencibles in this City on May 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th, promises 
to be the most interesting local event of recent years. With the 
exception of the First City Troop, the Fencibles is the only local 
Command that has preserved its individuality for a century, and 
in the celebration of that fact the most famous organizations of 
the country will participate. The Old Guard of the Fencibles, 
under Commander Furth, will wear the original uniforms of 1813, 
and the Battalion under Major Brazer, will wear the famous red 
uniform and bear skin shako. 

Invitations have been sent to the following commands of the 
Centennial Legion, formed of a crack corps in each of tlie 
thirteen original States in 1876, of which the Fencibles was the 
Pennsylvania representative : Fayetteville Light Infantry, N. C, 
1793 ; Boston Light Infantry, Mass., 1790 ; Washington Light In- 
fantry, S. C, 1807; New Haven Grays, Conn., 1816; Providence 
Light Infantry, R. I., 1818; Old Guard, N. Y., 1826; Norfolk 
Light Infantry, Va., 1828 ; Clinch Rifles, Ga., 1852 ; Amoskeag 
Veterans, N. H., 1854; Fifth Maryland Infantry, 1856; Phil 
Kearney Guards, N. J., 1868 ; American Rifles, Del., 1875. 

Favorable responses have been received from many of the above 
and most of them are expected to participate. In addition to the 
Legion among those present will be the famous Ancient and Hon- 
orable Artillery of Boston, which next June celebrates its two 
hundred and seventy-fifth anniversary; the Second Company 
Governor's Foot Guard of Hartford, organized in 1771, and 
whose first Captain was Benedict Arnold, with whom they stormed 
the Heights of Abraham at Quebec ; the Putnam Phalanx of 
Hartford, in Continental uniform; the Richmond Howitzers and 
Richmond Blues, the famous Gate City Guard of Atlanta, Ga. ; 
the National Lancers, of Boston ; the Boston Tigers, Light Ar- 
tillery; the Detroit Light Infantry, Albany Burgess Corps of 
Albany, and about a dozen others, including two Commands of 
the New Jersey National Guards, and a battalion of the famous 
New York Seventh Regiment. 



1913 CENTENNIAL OF STATE PENCTBLES 4;^,-) 

The appeal for funds to piitertain tlie visitintj ('(iminaiids is 
meeting a hearty response from jtatriotic citizens anxious to 
maintain Phihidelphia's reputation for hosjjitality. 

The Advisory Board after careful consideration announced the 
following programme for the celebration of the Centennial: 

May 21st, 3.30 P. M. Reception of all visiting Commands ,it In- 
dependence Hall by the Mayor, Rudolph Blankenburg. 

■i.30 P. M. Boat ride down the Delaware River. 

6.00 P. M. Shad dinner at Washington Park. 

8.00 P. M. Entertainment at the Park. 

11.00 P. M. Return to Philadelphia. 

May 22nd, 2.00 P. M. Parade on Broad Street. Starting at 
Girard Avenue and proceeding south to Washington Avenue. 

6.00 P. M. Banquet of all the visiting Commands. 

]\Iay 23rd, 9.30 A. M. Automobile sight-seeing tour of all visit- 
ing Commands. 

12.00 Noon. Luncheon. 

2.00 P. M. Departure of visiting Commands. 

The following committees were appointed, having the Centennial 
in charge : 

Finance Committee. Capt. John D. Garcia, Capt. Edw. E. 
Packer, Capt. A. H. Burton, Lieut. Henry Woodland; and Fred. 
T. Chandler, of the Old Guard. 

Publication of History and Publicity Committee. Capt. George 
S. Davis, Capt. Joseph L. Dunn, Capt. Edw. Lanneau. Lieut. 
George HofiF; and Walter J. AVarner, of the Old Guard. 

Reception Committee. Capt. Edw. J. Prittie, Capt. H. Stanley 
Ellis, Capt. William Sharps, Capt. William Scott, Capt. H. A. F. 
Hoyt, Capt. Fred. G. Zeh, Lieut. Edw. Engle, Lieut. ]\Iontraville 
Smith. Jr.. Lieut. James Patterson ; and R. P. Schellinger, J. H. 
Benner, B. H. Kirkbride, H. Le Grande Ensign, Robert J. Thomp- 
son and George Nutz of the Old Guard. 

Advisory Board. Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Capt. Thomas S. 
Lanard, Capt. A. H. Burton, Capt. Frank N. Greene; and Maj. 
Emanuel Furth and Captain ShaflFer, of the Old Guard. 

i\Iusic Committee. Sergt. Daniel W. Lanard, Jr., Sergt. Henry 
Porter, Sergt. Charles Merkle, Sergt. William Hinkle, Sergt. F. 
W. Glass, Sergt. Samuel Hunter and Sergt. James B. Murphy. 

Officers of the Centennial Anniversary Committee. Chairman, 



i 



436 ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 

Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Secretary, Capt. and Adjt. Thomas S. 
Lanard, Treasurer, Capt. A. li. Burton. 

Citizens Committee. Hon. Rudolph Blankenburg, Honorary 
Chairman ; Hon. George D. Porter, Hon. Herman Loeb, Hon. 
George W. Norris, Major James Robinson, Harry C. Ransley, Esq., 
George McCurdy, Esq., Col. Alex. M. Appel, Hon. Norris S. Bar- 
ratt, Col. Caldwell K. Biddle, Brig. Gen. R. Dale Benson, Col. Syl- 
vester Bonnaffon, Jr., Ralph Blum, Charles Burke, Hon. Wm. M. 
Bunn, Wm. Pindlay Brown, Esq., Frederick Burke, James Ed- 
ward Cattell, Esq., John P. Connelly, Esq., Rev. J. W. Cox, Fred. 
T. Chandler, Morris L. Clothier, Capt. St. George H. Cooke, Col. 
Wm. F. Eidell, Capt. Chas. W. Edmunds, Hon. Geo. W. Edmonds, 
Col. James Elverson, Hon. Geo. S. Graham, William F. Gleason, 
Esq., Ellis A. Gimbel, Col. J. Warner Hutchins, John E. Hanifen. 
Louis Hutt, Esq., Col. Samuel D. Lit, A. J. Limebumer, Gen. Jas. 
A. Latta, John Little, Hon. Jas. P. McNichol, Hon. Eugene E. Mc- 
Aleer, Col. Lucien M. Wiler, Major Frank L. Mueller, Major Thos. 
S. Martin, Hon. J. Hampton Moore, Hon. Geo. D. McCreary, Thos. 
Martindale, Hon. J. Willis Martin, Dr. Ellis Paxon Oberholtzer, 
George G. Perie, Esq., Edward W. Patton Esq., John M. Patterson, 
Esq., Hon. Boies Penrose, Hon. John E. Reyburn, Hon. Robert 
Ralston, Joseph P. Rogers, Esq., Col. John Sailer, Hon. Thos. B. 
Smith, Henry R. Shoch, W. S. P. Shields, Joseph N. Snellenburg, 
E. T. Stotesbury, Col. Hamilton D. Turner, Hon. Wm. S. Vare, 
Hon. John Wanamaker, Henry J. Walter, Gen. Louis Wagner, 
Brig. Gen. Theo. E. Wiedersheim. 

On May 1st, occurred the Annual Inspection by Lieut. William 
Mills, detailed by the Director of the Department of Public Safety, 
and on the 8th, the Citizens' Committee held a meeting at the 
Armory. At the conclusion of the meeting the Battalion gave an 
exhibition drill and parade. 

In futuro. The Author having promised the Centennial Com- 
mittee this book for the celebration, it became necessary to close the 
forms on May 8th. Consequently, the History of the Celebration 
must necessarily be omitted, but it is hoped that some ambitious 
Fencibles will cause to be written a full and detailed accoimt of 
the same which would be a veiy valuable supplement to this book. 



Appendixes 
MUSTER ROLLS 



MUSTER ROLL OF STATE FENCIBLES 

ON ENTERING 

UNITED STATES SERVICE ' 

August 15th, 1814. 

Captain, Clement C. Biddle. 

1st Lieutenant, Joseph R. Ingersoll. 

2d Lieutenant, Hartnian Kuhn. 

3d Lieutenant, Henry J. Williams. 

Ensign, Thomas Harper. 

(Officers commissioned July 13, 1813.) 
First Sergt., John W. Perit; 2d Sergt., Henry Sergeant; 3d Sergt., John 
C. McCall; 4th Sergt., P. A. Cannonge; 5th Sergt., William Kerr; 1st Coi-pl., 
William L. Longtag; 2d Corpl., Joseph K. McKean; 3d Corpl., Samuel Wil- 
cox; 4th Corpl., William Young; 5th Corpl., William Phillips; Drummer, 
Charles Green; Fifer, Samuel Fox. 

Privates. — Jacob Adams, Samuel H. Allward, Enoch Anderson, James J. 
Barclay, Jacob Bickley, John G. Biddle, William Boyd, George Budd, William 
Budd, John J. Breban, Michael Brown, William Boggs, O. Bertrand, Nathan 
Baker, Robert C. Barnhill, Henry C. Carey, John Christine, James IL Cole, 
Edward D. Coxe, Charles Sydney Coxe, John Connelly, John Currey, Robert 
DeSilver, Thomas Dunlap, John Ducker, William Davis, P. H. Friend, Jacob 
Fricke, Baldwin Gardener, Edward Goodwin, Edmund Green, Charles A. 
Grice, Samuel Grice, John K. Gravenstine, Thomas Humes, A. Hildebrandt, 
Charles V. Hagner, Stephen Hopkins, Samuel Israel, Charles Kay, .Joseph L. 
Kay, Samuel Kennedy, Isaac P. Kennedy, John B. Keene, .Tnseph Keene, Jr., 
Gabriel Kern, Jacob C. Kline, John Loughrey, John Leggit, William McKibben, 
Alexander McAlpin, M. McKenley, Thomas Morgan, Samuel Nevins, Stephen 
Nidelet, Joseph B. Norberrj', Isaac W. Norris, William North, Abraham Okie, 
James D. Olds, Joseph Parkman, Joseph R. Patterson, John Pemberton, 
Lewis Pluright, John C. Patton, Joseph Phillips, James Page, N. Parmenter, 
Isaac Remington, Thomas C. Rockhill, Joseph Robard, Joseph Ray, William 
Rittenhouse, John Rink, William Rush, Joseph Rodgers, Jr., John Strawbridge, 
William W. Smith, James Selby, Kendal Selby, John Small, John T. Sullivan, 
George Sehively, D. R. Sergeant, Lucien Soube, F. W. Sperry, James Taylor, 
T. F. Valette, Samuel S. Voorhees, Alexander Watt, Joseph II. West, Francis 
R. Wharton, Thomas Willing, Alexander Wray, Richard Willing, William 
Worrell, William Warren. 

Note. — The Company had a total of 112 men, James Taylor and Joseph 
Taylor failed to report and four men were mustered in at Camp Bloomfiel' 
making a total of 114 officers and men. 

i 



ii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1815 

FIRST REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY FIELD 

AND STAFF, TO WHICH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

WERE ATTACHED. 

Clement C. Biddle,, Colonel; Condy Raguet, Lieutenant Colonel; Joseph R. 
Ingersoll, First Major; Samuel S. Voorhees, Second Major; Michael W. Ash, 
Adjutant; Francis R. Wharton, Quartermaster; Thomas R. Peters, Paymaster; 
Samuel Stewart, Surgeon; James G. Ferguson, Surgeon's Mate; Samuel Wil- 
cox, Sergeant Major; Frederick W. Sperry, Quartermaster Sergeant; John 
Tryon, Drum Major; Joseph D. Erode, Fife Major. 

THE STATE FENCIBLES AS THE THIRD COMPANY, FIRST REGI- 
MENT PA. VOL. 

At date of muster out, January 8th, 1815. 

Hartmau Kuhn, Captain ; Henry J. Williams, 1st Lieutenant ; Isaac W. 
Norris, 2d Lieutenant; Peter A. Cannonge, 3d Lieutenant; John C. McCall, 
Ensign; Sergeants — 1st, William Kerr; 2d, William L. Longtag, Jr.; 3d, Joseph 
K. McKean ; 4th, William Young; 5th, William Phillips; Corporals — 1st, 
Thomas C. Rockhill; 2d, Edward D. Coxe; 3d, P. F. Fontanges; 4th, Thomas 
Willing, Jr. ; 5th, Joseph T. Clement ; 6th, John C. Patton. 

Privates. — John Adams, Samuel H. AUward, Joseph Allman, Thomas Alte- 
mus, Nathan Baker, James J. Barclay, Samuel Barclay, Robert C. Barnhill, 
Peter Bertrand, Jacob Bickley, William Billington, John J. Breban, Charles 
Britton, James Brown, William Boggs, Thomas Bond, William Boyd, John B. 
Budd, Henry Charles, Henry C. Carey, Peter Chupeau, John Christine, Henry 
Clark, James H. Cole, George Collier, John M. Connelly, Charles S. Coxe, 
John Currey, George Davis, Philibert Droz, John Ducker, Thomas Dunlap, 
Jacob Fricke, Philip H. Friend, William Friend, Edward Fox, Jr., Baldwin 
Gardener, Edward Goodwin, John K. Gravenstine, Edmund Green, John S. 
Green, Charles A. Grice, Samuel Grice, Charles V. Hagner, George F. Hagner, 
John S. Henry, Augustus Hildebrandt, William I. Hodge, Stephen Hopkins, 
Thomas Humes, Samuel Israel, Charles Kay, Joseph L. Kay, John B. Keene, 
Joseph Keene, Jr., Isaac P. Kennedy, Samuel Kennedy, Gabriel Kern, Jacob 
C. Kline, Henry S. Kline, John Leggit, John Loughrey, Alexander McAlpin, 
John McClenachan, Benjamin Molineaux, Samuel Nevins, Stephen F. Nidelet, 
Abraham B. Nones, William North, James B. Ogle, James D. Olds, James 
Page, Peter Pollen, Joseph Parkman, Nicholas Parmenter, John Pemberton, 
Nathaniel Pemberton, John W. Perot, Joseph Phillips, William Pinchin, 
William Rittenhouse, Joseph Ray, Joel Z. Reynolds, John Rink, Joseph Robard, 
Joseph Rodgers, Jr., Charles F. Roberts, John Roset, William Richardson, 
William Rush, Kendal Selby, George Schively, James B. Stiles, Robert H. Small, 
Lucien Soube, John Strawbridge, John T. Sullivan, David R. Sergeant, John 
Topham, George L. Tallman, Alexander Watt, Joseph H. West, Samuel With- 
ington, George Worl, William Worrell, Andrew Wray, Samuel P. Wether- 
iU, Thomas Y'^oung, Samuel Wilcox; Musician, Joseph D. Erode. 



1838 ^ MUSTER ROLLS jji 

BUCKSHOT WAR AT IIARRISBURG, 1838. 
MUSTER ROLL OF THE STATK FENCIBLES 

Attached to 108th Regiment, 1st Brigade ]'. M. 

Col. James Page, Commanding Regiment; Thomas B. EUnence, Quarter- 
master; 1st Lieut. Samuel Goldey, 'M Lieut. John S. Dutton ; Sergts. K^iltcrt 
J. Park, John Middleton ; Corj)ls. A. Montgomery, John Bremond, (1. \V. 
Francis, Frederick Boley. 

Privates. — Thomas Aitkin, Josejih Burkleback, Joseph ('. Burden, George 
Carroll, Benjamin F. Dutton, Cliarles Erbin, James Fisiier, Frederick Finkini, 
Samuel Garrett, D. \V. Hazzard, Alfred P. Hesaer, Edward Killingswortii, 
John Kirkbaum, James Muliin, John W. Moore, George W. Miles, George P. 
Mercer, John S. Pearce, Robert Passmore, Thomas M. Richards, Henry D. 
Stecker, John Truitt, Benjamin Williams, Reuben P. White. 

ROLL OF MEMBERS OF THE STATE FENCIBLES WHO SKRVED THE 
CITY IN THE KENSINGTON RIOTS MAY, 1844, AND TlIK SOl'TH- 
WARK RIOTS JULY, 1844. 

Capt. James Page, 1st Lieut. Samuel Goldey, 2d Lieut. John S. Dutton,f 
3d Lieut. John Middleton, Jr., 1st Sergt. Benjamin S. Dutton, 2d Sergt. William 
Halliday, 3d Sergt. John Miller, 4th Sergt. Thomas H. Marston, 5th Sergt. 
Robert J. Park, 1st Corpl. Frederick Boley, 2d Corpl. John Robinson, 4th 
Corpl. .Tames Miller. 

Privates. — Israel Amies, James Aken, Thomas Brooker, John Bremond, E. 
W. Cooper, James Cunningham, William Durell, William Elsegood, Charles 
Erben, John J. Franklin, Robert Ford, .Tames Fisher, Orlando Griffith, George 
W. Gardener, Joseph Hesser, Martin Leans, Jacob Meeke, George Miles, A. 
D. Montgomery, James Muliin, William Steel, Henry Stecker, Abraham Stine, 
Benjamin Stratton, Jacob Stapleton, John Truitt, Reuben P. White. 

MEXICAN WAR. 
1846. 

The Company tendered their services to the Governor of Pennsylvania, but 
were not accepted. The following members served in the Volunteers and took 
part in many battles fought in that country. 

Capt. William F. Small, Capt. R. B. Marcy, Lieut. R. Crittendon, Lieut. 
Orlando Griffith, Sergt. William Rice.* 

Privates. — Theodore Hesser, George W. Gardener, D. B. Scheble, Charles B. 
Packer,* Jacob Stapleton, Benjamin F. Dutton, James Anderson, Andrew 
Butler, Thomas Funston, Samuel Brown, Thomas McClintock.* 



tDied of disease contracted in service. 
•Killed in service. 



IV 



ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 18.30 



EOLL OF SURVIVOES IN 1850 OF CAMP DUPONT VETERANS. 

1813—1814. 

Col. Clement C. Biddle, Eegtl. Q. M. Francis E. Wharton, Capt. Hartman 
Kuhn, Lieut. Henry J. Williams, Corpl. P. F. Fontanges. 

Privates. — Samuel Withington, John B. Budd, Charles V. Hagner, William 
Eichardson, John J. Breban, James J. Barclay, Edward Goodwin, William 
Pinchin, Charles Sidney Coxe, Charles A. Grice, Thomas Dunlap, James Page, 
James Selby, Gabriel Kern, Henry C. Carey, Augustus Hildebrandt, Eobert 
H. Small, John Roset. 







OLD GUAED. 


1820- 


—David Boyd 


' ' — John Eobinson 


1 1 _ 


-Mathew McConnell 


' ' —William H. Steel 


I ( _ 


-Thomas M. Eichards 


" —William I. Halliday 


1821- 


—George Binder 


1839— Thomas H. Marston 


i I _ 


—John B. Barras 


" — Jacob Meeke 


1823- 


—James Mullin 


' ' — James Brodie 


1826- 


—Daniel Newman 


" —William D. Kelley 


1 1 _ 


-Thomas H. Gardener 


1840— John Miller 


1827- 


—John H. Dohnert 


' ' — James Akins 


< < _ 


-John Donnelly 


" — James Miller 


it _ 


-James Fisher 


1841 — Martin Leans 


1829- 


—Joseph Oliver 


" —William F. Small 


< ( _ 


-A. W. Wands 


1844— Samuel Buck 


i i _ 


-Alex. Smith 


" —A. M. Hopkins 


1 ( _ 


-Conrad Merklee 


' * — James Upton 


1831- 


—John H. Moore 


" —Eobert Wood 


( I _ 


-Samuel Rice 


" — Charles Hubbard 


I i _ 


-Jacob Fritz 


" — Charles Page 


1832- 


—George Carrol 


" — H. B. Yeager 


< ( _ 


-Eobert J. Park 


" — Eobert Harmer 


( < _ 


-Eobert Clymer 


1845- John Page 


1834- 


—A. P. Hesser 


' * —Charles C. Hafflefinger 


1835- 


—Samuel Goldey 


' ' - — Charles H. Masson 


< < _ 


-John Middleton 


" —Henry Hill 


I < _ 


-John G. Franklin 


1846— John M. Melloy 


" - 


-Henry F. Ettecker 


" —Eobert H. Ford 


" - 


-Thomas B. Florence 


1848 — Jonathan Ireland 


1836- 


-Orlando B. Griffith 


" — Jacob Wray 


( I _ 


-James Cassidy 


" — Theo. Hesser 


1 1 _ 


-George W. Francis 


1849— Aug. Headrick 


i I _ 


-Israel Amies 


" —David Stretch 


i I _ 


-Thomas P. Aitkins 


" — E. Forrest Koehler 


1838- 


-William A. Elsegood 


1850 — James Anderson 


< ( 


-Benjamin J. Williams 


' ' — Thomas Lyons 


< t _ 


-A. G. Montgomery 


" — Isaac Catfery 


1 1 _ 


-Edward Killingsworth 


** — Ambrose I. White 



1861 MUSTER ROLLS y 

ACTIVE PARADING MEMBERS OF THE OLD GUARD 1850. 

Capt. James Page, Lieut. A. P. Hesser, Robert Clymer, James Miller, Jamea 
Akins, James L, Upton, David Stretch, James MuUin, John Miller, Martin 
Leans, Robert Ford, Isaac Caffory, Frederick Boley, Thomas H. Marston, 
Charles Page, Aug. Headritk, Theodore llesser, E. Forrest Koehier, James 
H. Anderson. 

COMPANIES E AND K, STATE FENCIBLES, 18TH REGT. PENNA. VOL. 

Recruited at Philadelphia, April 24th, 1861. 

COMPANY E. 

Capt. John Miller, 1st Lieut. David T. Stretch, 2d Lieut. Andrew J. Knorr, 
1st Sergt. E. Forrest Koehier, 2d Sergt. Charles F. Sauter, 3d Sergt. Andrew 
J. Fisher, 4th Sergt. Henry A. Cook, 1st Corpl. Edward W. Smith, 2d Corpl. 
William H. Hopkins, 3d Corpl. Samuel Davies, 4th Corpl. James E. Auden- 
reid. Musicians, John McConnell, Miranus Bancker, 

Privates.— David W. Andrews, Peter Binder, John M. Bisbing, William H. 
Brooks, Henry Baurs, E. T. Blackman, Theodore C. Beck, William A. Covington, 
Joseph Carnes, Cephas R. Carver,* William Dickson, Christopher C. Doyden, 
Vincent P. Donnelly, Christopher Dunn, Charles L. Dodd, Frederick C. Diker, 
Samuel Derickson, William B. Dale, Louis N. David, William D. Evans, 
William Elliott, Richard Gilmour, Aaron S. Ilutton, Samuel Hutton, John T. 
Hawkins, Hermau Heidrick, John H. Haas, William Hunter, John S. Huddeli, 
John R. Hickman, Peter Fritz Halman, William Hart, Reuben Hanse, Ben- 
jamin F. Jones, Palmer Loper, John McKinley, David McFadden, William 
McCaffrey, Mahlon S. Michnor, Joseph Miller, Thomas Muldoon, Henry Munns, 
William J. Miller, Thomas Magee, Hampton North, Charles T. Packer, John 
E. Potter, John R. Pancoast, Edward E. Packer, James F. Questa, George L. 
Roesch, W. K. Smith, Edmund Sprigman, Edward Shraswood, James L. 
Simpson, Francis Shane, Philip J. Taylor, Martin Tschudy, Dennis Toomey, 
D. P. Wolf, Fisher Wilson, Harry E. Williams, Ambrose Wilson, George Wil- 
lingmyre. 

COMPANY K, STATE FENCIBLES. 

Capt. Theodore Hesser, 1st Lieut. Thomas H. Marston, 2d Lieut. Lewis II. 
Plum, 1st Sergt. William K. Colburn, 2d Sergt. Joseph S. Rudolph, 3d Sergt. 
James H. Anderson, 4th Sergt. James C. Biggs, 1st Corpl. Albert Booz, 2d 
Corpl. Uriah Reazer, 3d Corpl. William Thomas, 4th Corpl. Samuel B. Mc- 
Cahen, Musicians, William Elliott, Edward AUman. 

Privates — Joseph L. Billings, Henry Bennett, John Breckenbridge, Patrick 
Brophy, John J. Burns, Alexander H. Brown, John Claaze, James P. Collins, 
Joseph Coward, William M. Condon, Thomas II. Campbell, W^illiam W. Collins. 
John J. Croume, George W. Cook, Charles M. Davis, Aaron Dunkell, John 
Downing, Joseph N. Emanuel, Henry C. Estell, Richard Edwar<ls, Samuel S. 
Ford, Joseph Feaster, George O. Funston, Charles Grantling, Thomas O. 

*In Bates' History, Vol. I, p. 170, as Charles R. Carver. 



vi ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1861 

Grover, John J. Hill, Charles H. Horn, John Harp, William B. Hallowell, 
Lewis H. Hood, Theodore G. Hargins, John G. Koehler, William H. Kelley, 
William Lex, Joseph C. Locke, Asa V. Myrtellus, Henry K. Menns, Jacob 
Marker, Charles K. Murdock, Robert Morton, Thomas B. McGlathery, William 
S. McGinley, William Naglee, Prank M. Naglee, David R. Paul, Thomas J. 
Poyne, William Raudrauff, John H. Rodgers, Andrew Remshard, George L. 
Stephens, Harry Stephens, Michael Specht, Richard Shearer, Charles J. Smith, 
James P. Stoye, John A. Steen, Emanuel Sees, George Tamer, Charles B. 
Teese, William H. Teal, John R. White, George W. Waterhouse, William S. 
Williams, William Ware. 

MEMBERS OF THE STATE FENCIBLES WHO SERVED IN THE CIVIL 
WAR BEGINNING APRIL, 1861, TO APRIL, 1865. 

Col. A. P. Hesser,! Col. William F. Small,2 Col. D. H. Williams,3 Lieut. Col. 
Theo. Hesser,4 Lieut. Col. Martin Tschudy,^ Lieut. Col. Jesse R. MilLison,6 
Lieut. Col. Frank Vallee,3 Capt. John Miller,33 Capt. Thomas H. Marston,7-8 
Capt. Vincent P. Donnelly,^ Capt. William A. Elsegood,io Capt. James H. 
Anderson,ii Capt. Lewis H. Plum, 12-8 Capt. Henry A. Cook,i2-8 Capt. David 
T. Stretch,i3 Capt. E. Forrest Koehler,i4-s Capt. P. J. Smith,i5 Capt. Fred- 
erick Zarracher,6 Capt. Charles Page,i6 Capt. Robert Ford,i7 Regt. Q. M. 
Orlando Griffith,3 Surg. David D. Clark, Lieut. James B. Grier,2o Lieuf. Mat- 
thew C. Grier,2i Lieut. George W. Nagle,22 Lieut. William K. Colburn,i2 
Lieut. Henry E. Williams,23 Lieut. Edward W. Smith,i3 Lieut. Hampton 
North,24 Lieut. Hartman Kuhn,i8 Lieut. William S. Hellerman,i6 Lieut. James 
F. Nagle,3 Lieut. Fernando Lopez,3-25 Lieut. Andrew J. Knorr,i3-8 Lieut. 
Joseph S. Rudolph,i3 Lieut. James E. Audenreid,26 Lieut. Theodore C. Beck,i3 
Lieut. John T. Hawkins,^3-27 Lieut. Anson Hamburg,28 Lieut. G. S. Roycroft,29 
Lieut. G. J. Naylor,i6 Sergt. John R. Paneoast,3o Sergt. Fisher Wilson, 13 
Sergt. George Willingmyre,i3 Sergt. Mahlon S. Miehnor,i3-3i Sergt. Daniel 
P. Wolf,32 Sergt. Benjamin F. Jones,i2 Sergt. Andrew J. Fisher,33 Sergt. J. 
R. Hickman,26 Sergt. Charles F. Sauter,33 Sergt. Cephas R. Carver,i3 Sergt. 
James L. Colgan,23 Sergt. Charles C. Dryden,i3 Sergt. John Haas,i3 Sergt. 
Frederick C. Diker,i3 Sergt. Philip J. Taylor,i2 Sergt. David W. Andrews,32 
Sergt. Thomas Muldoon,26 Sergt. James C. Biggs, Sergt. Joseph B. Beale,i6 
Drum-major A. V. Bancker,34 Musicians, John McConnell,33 Miranus Banck- 
er,34 William Elliott,33 Edward Allman,33 Corpl. Christopher Dunn,i3 Corpl. 



1 Killed in Missouri, October 4, 1861. 

2 Enlisted in 26 Pa. Vol., also served in Mexican War. 

3 Enlisted in 82 Pa. Vol. 

4 Enlisted in 18 and 72 Pa. Vol. (Mexican War Veteran). Killed at Mine Run, 
November 27, 1863. 

5 Enlisted in 18 and 69 Pa. Vol. Wounded, .July 2, 1863. Killed, July 3, 1863, at 
Gettysburg. 

6 Enlisted in 29 Pa. Vol. 

7 Enlisted in 18 and 82 Pa. Vol. 

8 Died from disease contracted in service. 

9 Enlisted in 18 and 23 Pa. Vol. 

10 Enlisted in 30 Pa. Vol. 

11 Enlisted in 18 and 24 Pa. Vol. (Mexican War Veteran). 

12 Enlisted in 18 and 72 Pa. Vol. 

13 Enlisted in 18 and 82 Pa. Vol. 

14 Enlisted in 18 and 114 Pa. Vol. 

15 Enlisted in IS and 31 Pa. Vol., 2d Pa. Reserves. 



1861 ^ MUSTER ROLLS vii 

William Justice,6 Corpl. Samuel Davies,33 Corpl. Uriah Reazer,33 Corpl. Samuel 
B. McCahen,33 Corpl. William Hunter,:<3 Corpl. William II. IIoi)kiiis,i-! Corj)!. 
Albert Booz,33 Corpl. William Thoma.8.33 

Privates.— Alex. Anderson.sr, Peter Bindcr,:i3 John M. Bisbing,"'! William 
H. Brooks,33 Henry Baurs,33 E. T. Blackman,-!.! Josej>h L. Billlnfjs,:i:t Henry 
Bennett,33 John Breckenbridge,33 I'atrick Bropliy,33 John J. Burns,33 
Alex. H. Bro\vn,33 John Claaze,33 James P. Collin8,33 Josejih Co\vard,33 
William M. Condon,33 Thomas H. Campbell,33 William W. Collin8,83 
John J. Croume,33 George W. Cook,33 William A. Covington,33 Joseph Carne8,33 
William Diekson,33 Charles L. Dodd,37 Christopher Dunn, Samuel Deric'kson,33 
William B. Dale,33 Louis N. David,33 Charles M. Davis,33 Christopher C. Doy- 
den,33 Aaron Dunkell,33 John Downing,33 William Elliott, Joseph N. Kman- 
uel,33 Henry C. Estell,33 Richard Edwards,33 William I). Evans,33 Samuel 
S. Ford, 33 Joseph Feaster,-'.'. George O. Funston,33 Charlee Grantling,33 
Thomas O. Grover,33 Richard Gilmour,33 Aaron S. Hutton,33 Herman Heid- 
rick,33 William Hunter, John S. Huddell,33 Peter Fritz Halman,i3 Samuel 
Hutton,33 William Hart,33 Reuben Hanse,33 John J. Hill,33 Charles H. 
Horn,33-8 John Harp,33 William B. Hallo\vell,33 Lewis H. Hood,33 Theodore 
G. Hargins,33 John G. Koehler,33 AViHiam H. Kelley,33 William Lex,33 
Joseph C. Locke,33 Palmer Loper,33 John McKinley,33 A. W. F. MacCollins, 
David McFadden,33 William McCaflfrey,33 Joseph Miller,33 Henry Munas,33 
William J. Miller,33 Thomas Magee,33 Asa V. Myrtellus,33 Henry K. Menus, 33 
Jacob Marker,33 Charles K. Murdock,33 Robert Morton,33 Thomas B. Mc- 
Glathery,33 William S. McGinley,33 William Naglee,33 Frank M. Naglee,33 
Edward E. Paeker,34 Charles T. Packer,36 John E. Potter,33 David R. Paul,33 
Richard Shearer,33 Emanuel Sees,33 Edmund Sprigman,33 James L Simp.son,33 
George Tamer,33 Charles B. Teese,i2 William H. Teal,33 Dennis Toomey,33 
Ambrose Wilson,33 George W. Waterhou.se,33 William Ware,33 William S. 
Williams,33 John R. White,33 Thomas J. Poyne,33 James L. Questa,33 George 
L. Roesch,i2 John H. Rodgers,33 William Raudrauff,33 Andrew R«mshard,33 
George L. Stephens,33 Harry Stephens,33 James P. Stoye,33 Michael Specht,33 
Charles J. Smith,33 John A. Steen,33 William K. Smith,33-s Edward Shars- 
wood,33-35 Francis Shane. 



16 Enlisted in 33 Pa. Vol. 

17 Enlisted in Baker's Brigade. 

18 A. D. C. to General Meade. Killed. June, 1862. 

19 Creek War Veteran and Me,\ican War Veteran. 

20 Enlisted in 82 Pa. Vol. Killed at Malvern Hill, July 1, 1862. 

21 Enlisted in Angeroth Heavy Artillery. 

22 Enlisted in 23 Pa. Vol. 

23 Enlisted in U. S. A. 

24 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Infty. and 2 Pa. Cavalry. Killed in Virginia. 

25 Garroted by Spaniards in Cuba. 

26 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Infty. and 2 Pa. Cavalry. 

27 Died from wounds received in service. 

28 Enlisted in 91 Pa. Vol. 

29 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and Cameron Dragoons. 

30 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and Juniata Reg. 

31 Killed in Virginia. 

32 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and Mounted Rifles. 

33 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. 

34 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and 26 Pa. Vol. 

35 Killed in North Carolina. 

36 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and 40 Pa. Vol. 

37 Enlisted in 18 Pa. Vol. and 52 Pa. Vol. 



viii ONE HUNDKED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1863 

STATE FENCIBLES MUSTERED INTO THE U. S. SERVICE JUNE 

26TH, 1863, AS CO. D, 33D REGIMENT, DISCHARGED 

AUGUST 4TH, 1863. 

Capt. Charles Page, 1st Lieut. George J. Naylor, 2cl Lieut. William T. Hel- 
lerman, Sergts. George Eoesch, Job Fisher, Theodore Smith, William G. 
Volkmar, John Bently, Corporals Edwin Ashman, Stephen Beal, George H. 
Helfridge, Joseph H. Bower, Lucius C. Pierson, Robert A. Bevans, George 
Lipp, Burger A. Bitting, Musicians Andrew T. MacCollins, Charles E. Bevans. 

Privates. — Joseph Bevans, Joseph B. Beale, Charles Bowen, William B. 
Bitting, Silas Bates, Samuel C. Benners, James Christie, Frank Dougherty, 
Alexander H. Dixon, Evan W. D. Dunlap, Henry Dugan, Henry C. Ellis, 
Lewis Fisher, John M. Goodrich, Charles Gann, William Hestor, Thomas 
Harris, Ira M. Hovey, Henry Jones, William Kite, Henry Kempton, William 
M. Long, George Moneypenny, Charles Naylor, Francis Oaks, John Piper, 
Joseph E. Raphun, Philip Rieber, Jacob T. Simmons, John Schoedler, Albert 
Shald, Samuel Smith, Edward Simonton, Jacob Spangler, Charles Sainter, 
James Scott, Andrew Volk, Theodore Vanatta, William S. Williams, Robert 
Wylie, Regan N. Williams, Samuel Witzman. 

MUSTER ROLL STATE FENCIBLES COMPANY A, OF 8TH REGT. 

N. G. P., OF PHILADELPHIA. 

APRIL, 1871. 

Capt. John W. Ryan, 1st Lieut. W. R. Smith, 2d Lieut. E. E. Packer, 1st 
Sergt. Edw. McEwen, 2d Sergt. Jas. J. Devenney, 3d Sergt. David R. Porter, 
4th Sergt. Charles Fisher, 5th Sergt. Robert McCaulley, 1st Corpl. Wm. Le- 
tourneau, 2d Corpl. Wilbur F. Geer, 3d Corpl. T. R. Warner, 4th Corpl. Horace 
Dowling, 5th Corpl. Josiah Torr, 6th Corpl. George N. Heyls, 7th Corpl. Wm. 
Johnson, 8th Corpl. J. K. Walker. 

Privates. — Stephen Barbier, Charles Berger, E. E. Billings, Robt. Brown, 
Harry C. Briggs, W. H. Binder, W. S. Crawford, George Eastman, W. H. 
Hargreaves, Edw. F. Hay, A. Hetterbraucher, John L. Hoffman, John C. leffers, 
George Large, James Linnard, Jos. Maxwell, John McCormack, George Mc- 
Ewen, J. H. Nice, Wm. Oram, Robt. E. Pattison, Robt. Pollock, Henry Rush- 
ton, G. M. Sensenderfer, S. A. Seith, H. E. Scott, J. C. Shawcross, James C. 
Stimmel, Robt. Subers, Theo. Shaffer, Amos Truman, Van Arsdale, George 
Walker, A. J. Wilt, P. B. Yoder; Musicians, Theo. Eddy, Harry De Waeld, 
Harry Sharp. 

COMPANY OF STATE FENCIBLES. 

MUSTER ROLL OF MEMBERS WHO SERVED THE STATE IN THE 

RAILROAD RIOTS AT PITTSBURG AND SCRANTON, PA., 

JULY 20TH TO AUGUST 5TH, 1877. 

Capt. John W. Ryan, 1st Lieut. Edward E. Packer, 2d Lieut. Samuel J. 
Stewart. Honorary Staff, Capt. George Deviney, Lieut. Peter Lane, Lieut. 
William Bower, Lieut. John Bower, Surg. A. P. Bloomer. 

Sergt. Charles Abel, Sergt. William B. Johnston, Sergt. Sylvester B. Tag- 
gert, Sergt. Charles Berger, Sergt. Edward H. Lawrence, Corpl. Horace Scott, 



1892 ^ MUSTER ROLLS 



IX 



Corpl. James C. Stimmel, Corpl. G. W. P. Simpson, Corpl. Geortjp McEwen, 
Corpl. James B. M. Grier, Corpl. George Senseinlerfer, ('orj)!. Theodore 
Shaffer; Musicians, W. De La Rue, George Getz, IL Rodgors, William Rodgers. 
Privates.— W. Barker, Stephen Barbier, Harry Beck, J. Baumgartner, J. 
Conrad, Jacob Clymer, W. Wesley Chew, W. Davis, S. Ducket, J. DeBuist, 
George L. Eastman, John Esher, A. Eckel, J. Edwards, T. Ferguson, A. Fuller, 
G. Fitler, A. W. Goldberg, P. Gormley, J. Geisberg, II. Guygcr, J. Gantly, 
"W. Goodes, W. Glenn, C. Hepburn, J. Heath, J. Hollahan, W. Irvln, R. Keegan, 

Logan, W. Moore, O. Moore, C. Mecke, G. Moser, S. Moore, G. Moxey, E. 

McGlue, J. McCormick, A. McKenna, J. MeCaughan, E. Newton, Adolph Orf, 
J. Sensenderfer, W. Shubert, C. Smith, H. Samples, L. Theiry, T. Unruh, 
J. Vogdes, W. Wright, D. Zeitlor. 

OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES 
WHO REPORTED FOR DUTY FOR SUPPRESSION OF INDUS- 
TRIAL DISTURBANCES, AT HOMESTEAD, PA., JULY, 1892. 

FIELD AND STAFF. 

Wm. A. Witherup, Major; J. F. Redfearn, 1st Lieut, and Adjutant; E. V. 
H. Nardi, 1st Lieut, and Quartermaster; Chas. Fitzpatriek, Jr., 1st Lieut, and 
Asst. Surgeon; George Christie, 1st Lieut, and Insp. Rifle Practice; Henry 
A. F. Hoyt, Captain and Chaplain. 

NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF. 

Jas. C. Stimmel, Sergeant Major; F. M. Hayes, Quartermaster Sergeant; 
Thomas Flood, Commissary Sergeant; Walter CoUings, Hospital Steward; 
Lewis Isaacs, Prin. Musician. 

COMPANY A. 

Capt. J. Harry Mihlbauer, 1st Lieut. Chas. H. Rebsher, 2d Lieut. Fred G. 
Zeh, 1st Sergt. John H. Dellop, Sergts. John E. O 'Daniel, Harry Lehnen, 
John Jackson, Corpls. Robert S. Boyer, Daniel E. Murphy, John A. MeFarland, 
Harry C. Stringer, Grant B. Bertolet, Herbert W. Elvidge, Frank R. Vogen- 
burg, Musicians, Harry Peterman, Thomas Durr. 

Privates.- — 'R. George AUison, John Bender, Samuel W. Bergstresser. 
Wm. Blakely, Harry L. Britton, Wm. S. Bewley, Robert Block, John II. Crass. 
Chas. C. Cassidy, John Creedon, Allan Cunningham, Jr., S. Rupert Church, 
Robert Craig, George Distler, Wm. H. Ellis, Caleb Ethridge, Jos. S. Fallon. 
Thomas Fredericks, Branson V. Gamber, Wm. W. Green, Henry W. Hall. 
Michael C. Hoade, John M. Kuch, Chas. W. Knorr, Robert C. Keim, Geo. R. 
Karsner, Edwin M. Loag, Harry T. Lewis, George Lewis, Henry L. Miller, 
Geo. F. Metzger, Robt. E. Maginnis, John H. McHay, T. Richard Odenath, 
Edw. E. Packer, Thomas Rice, Augustus C. Roberts, Jr., Elwell Stockdale, 
Maurice Smith, Thomas A. Simpson, Charles Toner, W^m. C. Valentine, John 
Van Dusen, J. Richard Wotowetz, Chas. W'. Whetford, Charles Wilson. 



X ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1892 

COMPANY B. 

Capt. George W. Eea, 1st Lieut. Joseph A. Ryan, 2d Lieut. Wm. H. Nagle, 
Jr., 1st Sergt. Harry Beck, Sergts. S. P. Barbier, Frank J. Gannon, W. R. 
Scott, H. W. McFassel, Jr., Corpls. Joseph A. Kenney, J. Kyte, Frank B. 
Jaquett, John J. Grant, John Locher, Jr., Mark E. Beam, William I. Congar, 
M. W. Sillman, Musicians, John J. Campbell, Sam Orr. 

Privates. — Chas. Bowers, L. Barry, Charles P. Bates, Charles N. Bergman, 
John S. Buchanan, H. F. Brink, Geo. H. Barnet, Robert Corbidge, William D. 
Clermont, Frank S. Getz, William Hartmann, Edw. F. Jackson, Wm. A. Jennens, 
Edw. L. Lanneau, Joseph A. Murphy, Hugh Montgomery, F. H. Mullen, 
Ernest F. Niess, Harry J. Peters, James M. Rauck, John C. Ryan, Philip H. 
Steele, C. O. Sundquist, F. C. Senseman, J. G. Smith, A. W. Shelmerdine, S. H. 
Sherwood, R. L. Van Dusen, Thomas Walsh, Eugene Waters, R. Otto Woll- 
muth, H. J. Adams, Ed. P. Emsley, William Hotz, Charles Oetter, Joseph 
Wexler, William Webb, W. Lohmiller, H. Jennings. 

COMPANY C. 

Capt. R. P. Schellinger, 1st Lieut. L. F. Baker, 2d Lieut. Chas. E. Smith, 
1st Sergt. Samuel C. Falls, Sergts. Fredk. A. Boch, W. T. Burton, A. H. 
Burton, A. E. McDougall, Corpls. Wm. S. Horner, S. Thistle, A. J. Hanna, 
Geo. O. Wetherbee, Saml. H. Tool, George W. Johnston, F. K. Worley, Jr., 
A. McCurry, Musicians, Wm. Thomas, Frank Scliuler. 

Privates. — Chas. Asmus. T. M. Amonson, Jas. G. Burton, Robt. L. Brown, 
D. M. Brodhead, J. E. Beeston, C. Bailes, J. W. Clark, Jas. Crosson, Jesse J. 
Cole, J. S. Dom, Jos. Eachus, Chas. Eliassen, C. A. Fulton, G. J. Ferguson, 
Chas. C'. Fischer, Frank Falkenhagen, David Griffith, W. H. Hawkinson, 
Fred. Hedelt, Louis Hoffner, Jos. Jepson, A. S. Klausfelder, Wm. S. Keir, 
M. F. Keely, J. Kerns, J. L. Lewis, Thos. J. MeKee, Wm. H. McClune, John 
McCartney, Chas. McHugh, J. C. Rosemary, David S. Roach, J. M. Reed, 
C. H. Shaller, S. H. K. Shaffer, W. W. Sutterly, F. A. Smiley, J. Thistle, 
F. P. Waters, Harry S. Warfield, John Willard, J. Winkler, J. W. Yarnall, 
W^. L. Palmer. 

COMPANY D. 

Capt. Thurber T. Brazer, 1st Lieut. Samuel P. Holmes, 2d Lieut. L. E. 
Dagit, 1st Sergt. Theodore Schaeffer, Sergts. William B. White, Frank 
Chaignot, Thomas J. Curley, John L. Duffey, Corpls. David Sage, John J. 
Hare, Julius F. Cassel, Peter D. Finn, George W. Henry, Charles F. Morwitzer, 
Ferdinand H. Pleate, Gilbert J. Ayre, Musicians, Robert Andrews, John Robin- 
son. 

Privates. — Matthew Adams, Edwin G. Ames, Clarence Atmore, Charles 
Andrews, Walter L. Byrnes, Charles F. Blase, Wm. H. Beehtel, George F. 
Elliott, William R. Edwards, George Flavelle, Joseph S. George, Jr., William 
Gilbert, George Gehlert, John Gleason, Charles S. Hoey, William S. Irwin, 
Wilbur M. James, George A. Hammer, Thornton Kirby, Erhard Kopp, George 
M. Karr, Harry W. Lindeborn, Edward Leach, William E. Marley, Charles 
H. Marron, Thomas Mulcrone, Thomas H. McCabe, Charles J. McMullin, 



18f>8 ^ MUSTER ROLLS xi 

Walter S. McQuaide, C. Clifford O 'Bryan, John A. Pieate, C'liarlos R. Pas- 
sihl, P. Joseph Rowe, Frank M. Sharpless, Augustus C. Schoedler, Louis 
Shugars, George F. Schatier, Josej)h W. Thompson, Clinton K. Townsend, 
Louis L. Tafel, George M. Young, Jr., George E. Yeoinans, Harry Zajotti. 

INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES. 

ROLL OF MEMBERS WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRY IN THE SPAN- 
ISH-AMERICAN WAR, 1898. COMPANIES A, B, C, D WERE 
ASSIGNED TO THE 6TH PA. REGT. U. S. V., 1ST BAT- 
TALION, AS COMPANIES K, M, L, E. 

Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Ad.jt. L. F. Baker, Surg. Charles Fitzpatriik, 
Chap. H. A. F. Hoyt. 

COMPANY^ A AS (COMPANY K, 6TH REG.) 

Capt. Charles H. Rebsher, 1st Lieut. Fred. G. Zeh, 2d Lieut. John Jackson, 
Sergts. J. E. O 'Daniel, W. B. Ryner, J. A. McFarland, H. Porterfield, Wm. 
H. Hinkle, Corpls. H, L. Miller, J. D. Garcia, G. A. Maier, W. H. Cramp, 
W. J. Nelson, J. W. Tinsman, T. G. D. Garcia, C. R. McKenna, R. A. Elwood, 
H. L. Jamison, R. P. Wright, G. Kress, W. Fowler, Artificer, R. F. Balzer, 
Wagoner, P. L. D. Garcia, Musicians, T. A. Simpson, J. Mills. 

Privates. — C. M. Barr, H. W. Boekenkamp, Y. L. Bowers, H. M. Batty, 
H. Becker, S. Bruce, A. B. Coleman, L. F. Coleman, C. H. Charlton, R. A. 
Cronshey, S. M. Cunningham, N. B. Coppock, T. T. Clemens, W. J. Clayton, 
D. H. Cressman, W. W. Coates, W. Callanan, T. H. Drager, J. DeVerne, 
J. Emanuel, J. M. Eppstein, J. Eckel, W. I. Elliott, T. S. Fenn, C. S. Fegley, 
J. B. Ferguson, S. H. Ferguson, C. A. Ford, C. A. Faloon, E. R. Gorman, 
W. S. Garvin, H. E. Gleason, G. F. Hagan, LeR. V. Haller, G. S. Hollman, 
J. F. Hughes, T. H. Hollinshead, R. Haig, D. J. Horgan, W. G. Hamlin,* 
W. H. Joseph, J. 0. Kirk, A. A. Kirk, J. R. Kelly, E. King, W. Lucke, W. C. 
Lutz, F. McCaffrey, W. M. Mclntyre, H. P. McLaughlin, W. C. Mattern, 
W. E. Matter, DeW. Mackenzie, T. Meek, W. H. Montgomery, W. H. Mose- 
bach, J. T. Murphy, G. H. Neil,* J. D. Orr, T. C. Osterheldt, F. C. Porter, 
J. W. Parrott, C. H. Rebsher, J. J. Ragan, J. K. Rigler, H. K. Ruppert, 
B. G. Soloman, W. Stewart, H. J. Smith, J. F. Steinmetz, F. W. Sehier, W. 
A. Strause, J. K. Starr, R. H. Sechler, W. F. Swearer, P. Sholly,* W. E. 
Thorne, P. M. Taylor, W. Tolan, C. Vauderslice, C, H. Volk, E. J. Verdeur, 
T. F. Ward, J. A. White, G. W. Williams, J. C. Wood, W. T. Wiggins, R. E. 
Wright. 

COMPANY B AS (COMPANY M, 6TH REG.) 

Capt. Walter M. Collings, 1st Lieut. Chas H. Bowers, 2d Lieut. John T. 
Duffey, Sergts. F. C. Senseman, G. B. Craig, J. G. Cranage, W. H. Harris, 
T. B. Naughton, J. M. Rauck, Corpls. F. A. Lelar, T. D. Crosby, J. R. Mc- 
Keever, J. C. B. Newhard, C. N. Booth, D. B. Lelar, H. D. Abell, J. T. Ander- 

•Died from disease contracted in service. 



xii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1898 

son, W. E. Farlow. S. W. Hinson, J. R. Booth, W. J. Mulholland, W. Gram- 
mel. Artificer, C. E. R. Esmond, Waggoner, W. W. Duey, Musicians, G. T. 
Reardon, W. T. White. 

Privates. — G. Arbuekle, H. Bainbridge, T. G. Barker, G. W. Becker, V. 
Bergquist, J. A. Boyce, N. BowTnan, E. P. Brittingham, C. A. Burke, H. A. 
Gathers, J. A. Cavanaugh, F. E. Garland, W. W. Caldwell, P. L. Charlton, 
P. H. Corcoran, J. J. Coughlin, J. Collum, J. B. Cunnane, E. P. Dold, Jr., 
J. Donohue, Jr., D. A. Dougherty, G. W. Dunckley, R. H. Dunckley, B. B. 
Filer, E. J. Farley, T. Farnhani, W. R. Flinn, B. C. Garrison, C. A. Homsher, 
J. S. Haigh, J. A. Hayes, H. N. Hellerman, C. S. Hoffman, H. Hutt, J. M. 
Husted, E. S. Irons, W. E. Jacobs, B. F. Jenkins, H. Keller, E. Kebabian, C. 
S. Lafferty, R. A. Lacy, L. Leavy, R. R. Love, G. D. Love, E. E. Lowe, T. 
McCauley, Jr., J. D. McCarthy, P. F. McGuire, J. McLaughlin, H. V. Mac- 
Knight, C. M. Marshall, L. B. Marshall, G. F. Manning, R. H. Meyers, E. 
Morrill, H. L. Milligan, H. E. Miller, J. A. Mulvey, J. A. Murphy, W. Owen, 
W. M. Parker, B. W. Peel, F. Perl, M. T. Priory, C. H. Pyrah, W. M. Pren- 
dergast, G. W. Reed, J. B. Reilly, W. H. Rodgers, M. S. Royer, M. J. Scan- 
nell, W. R. Sheppard, G. F. Simon, H. W. Smith, B. C. Snyder, F. P. Tomes, 
H. F. Weaver, C. N. Williams, H. G. Williams, H. Williams, E. H. Wilkinson, 
I. B. Weiser, W. J. Wirth, J. White, F. Yeager. 

COMPANY C AS (COMPANY L, 6TH REG.) 

Capt. J. L. McBlain, 1st Lieut. Charles F. Lumb, 2d Lieut. William T. 
Burton, Sergts. J. G. Burton, F. M. Amonson, W. H. McClune, P. W. Coonan, 
A. E. McDougall, F. M. Wisham, Corpls. C. C. Fischer, T. F. Sipps, H. L. 
Barnett, J. M. Carey, J. M. Keim, W. I. Congar, J. M. Lessig, N. Goodsell, 
W. M. Graham, E. M. DeCan, J. R. Cantrell, H. O. Winner, C. T. T. Boston, 
Artificer, E. Ewell, Wagoner, C. J. Burns, Musicians, F. E. Schuler, J. F. 
Galbraith. 

Privates. — F. R. Applegate, R. Adams, G. D. Brientnall, A. W. Brown, 
J. P. Brook, F. Y. Breyer, J. J. Cahill, R. W. Calsuner, J. T. Carey, C. P. 
Clement, E. Crommie, J. A. Crout, J. E. Courtney, R. H. Campbell, J. Clar- 
ence,f W. Denney, F. M. Devlin, M. E. Duncan, E. F. Eichmann, J. L. Eber- 
hardt, B. Fay, E. B. Floyd, F. C. Fisher, J. Gallagher, G. F. Gallagher, F. S. 
Getz, W. R. Gibson, T. J. Greene, E. C. Garrett, J. B. Grumbien, J. K. Garbrick, 

F. J. Haas, D. L. Haggerty, A. W. Heite, J. E. Home, S. H. Heft, J. J. 
Hogan, J. H. Harvey, R. W. Jarvis, J. F. Johnston, N. F. Kelley, O. S. Keifer, 
W. N. Kuhn, H. Lusby, W. Lane, J. A. Lease, P. Lesh, J. A. McPeak, J. W. 
McCouch, G. K. McKnight, L. E. Mitchell, C. A. Mount, E. A. Muldoon, E. D. 
S. Mullison, E. H. Milne, H. Miller, D. F. Meredith, J. A. Mahood, D. T. 
Nevin, C. E. Newhard, A. O'Brien, W. H. Prescott, W. S. Phy, W. M. Pierce, 

G. W. Pickel, C. C. Reitz, H. W. Reaser, J. B. Roulston, J, W. Rutledge, J. S. 
Shallcross, W. R. Storm, W. Swallow, H. W. Springfield, W. J. Smith, J. B. 
Shearer, J. V. Sloan, J. M. Tawney, J. N. Thomas, J. A. Tierney, J. E. Taylor, 
E. A. Walton, J. Wilson, J. E. Wilhelm, C. S. Warren, K. J. Whaley. 

tThis name does not appear in the Adjutant General's Report for 1898. 



1898 " MUSTER ROLLS 



Xlll 



COMPANY D AS (COMPANY E, 6T1I REG.) 

Capt. Leon E. Dagit, 1st Lieut. Charles J. McMulIin, 2d Lieut. G. M. Price, 
Sergts. J. W. Thompson, C. R. Townsend, L. L. Tafel, D. B. Shirlock, J. L. 
Dunn, J. D. Blair, Corpls. J. R. Cooper, W. H. Leigh, J. E. Fisher, W. H. S. 
Dunn, G. Elliott, E. J. Carroll, W. Harris, C. B. McCaffrey, G. F. Shaffer, Jr., 
G. S. Inman, A. G. Dempster, R. P. Kutz, J. J. Collins, Artificer, B. D. Bale, 
Wagoner, C. S. Rowland, Musicians, R. A. Magradey, E. T. Ellis. 

Privates.— O. F. Albreeht, B. H. Atchley, J. A. Bentz, J. G. Beamesdifer, 
G. J. Bihn, C. B. Boland, F. J. Boyle, J. Breitzman, C. F. Brown, E. Broad- 
bent, R. F. Christy, E. A. Cosgrove, J. S. Cutler, J. A, Dahl, J. Donaldson, 
M. S. Dickson, L. M. Evans, T. A. Finnigan, F. M. Farrell, D. A. Fretz, 
W. R. Furlong, E. H. Gabriel, W. W. Green, G. M. Garrett, W. J. Gilmore, 
J. Gray, W. Gregson, G. A. Henning, G. R. Holmes, P. G. Himes, W. N. Hoff, 
D. J. Hotmean, H. M. Holmes, J. H. Hughes, J. G. Hauck, J. H. Jones, W. A. 
Kennedy, J. J. Kearney, J. F. Kerr, R. C. Kinsler, J. M. Knox, W. A. Kendig, 
J. G. Latimer, R. I. Levy, H. L. Maiser, N. C. Malsberger, T. G. Margrie, 
W. H. Markward, H. L. May, W. H. Meek, H. M. Murphy, J. Metcalfe, J. I. 
MacBlaine, E. J. McCann, J. F. Mclntyre, L. G. Nichol, T. J. O'Neill, W. H. 
Price, J. F. Prendergast, H. C. Pugh, W. E. Reed, W. Reeves, H. Rekatzky, 
L. B. Ricot, O. W. Richards, F. S. Scholl, L. Scofield, L. Simard, W. L. 
Schwartzkopp, Jr., R. Snitcher, S. H. Sutphin, T. K. Sterrett, H. S. Stevenson, 
J. J. Stocker, W. A. Stone, H. Stratton, F. A. Swartz, J. J. Sweeney, J. T. 
Thompson, W. B. Thomas, Jr., G. W. Weaber, H. C. Weinstock, J. Wilson, 
G. W. Yrigoyen. 

INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES. 

ROLL OF MEMBERS WHO SERVED IN THE TROLLEY^ STRIKE AT 

PHILADELPHIA, FEBRUARY 21ST TO MARCH 1ST, 1910. 

Maj. Thurber T. Brazer, Adjt. Capt. Thomas S. Lanard, Q. M. Capt. Ed- 
ward E. Packer, Com. Capt. A. H. Burton, Surg. Capt. Frank N. Greene, Ord. 
Capt. W. R. Scott, Sergt. Maj. Henry T. Porter, Q. M. Sergt. W. Hinkle, 
Com. Sergt. C. H. Merkle, Color Sergt. G. Barbier. 

COMPANY A. 

Capt. John D. Garcia, 1st Lieut. H. Miller, 2d Lieut. E. Engle, Sergts. P. 
Coonan, B. Jamison, C. Menk, H. Sternberg, M. Weschler, Corpls. W. Thomp- 
kins, M. Adams, H. Riddough. 

Privates. — N. H. Barnett, M. H. Canary, F. Carman, C. C. Coleman, H. 
Epstein, R. B. Fisher, F. C. Fisher, C. J. Garvey, J. Gillespie, W. Hadden, 
F. Hunter, C. Irons, J. E. Lipsitt, W. Mahoney, R. Maussner, J. Mullen, F. 
Newberg, C. R. Parton, J. Pogash, C. Rasbald, C. Rexstein, J. Reed, B. 
Shapiro, A. F. Seynave, F. Suddell, P. Weschler, J. Wiener, P. Witlin, M. 
WUlin. 

COMPANY B. 

Capt. Edward L. Lanneau. 1st Lieut. George S. Davis, 2d Lieut. G. Porter, 
Sergts. J. Conrad, J. H. Fenton, J. Huffnagle, Corpls. F. P. Kelly, J. Mullen, 
29 



xiv ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1910 

Privates.— H. Barton, G. Daniels, H. Dinkleman, E. M. Etchells, H. Ennis, 
F. W. Fuller, C. Gabriel, J. J. Hines, H. M. Harned, J. J. Keating, W. F. 
Magee, H. Mullen, G. McNulty, J. W. O 'Conner, C. Pyle, C. Peraria, C. Rebman, 
W. Reed, H. Seybert, T. W. Shaw, W. B. Swaincott, T. A. Stolp, M. E. Walloek) 

COMPANY C. 

Capt. E. J. Prittie, 1st Lieut. M. H. Smith, Jr., 2d Lieut. H. L. Woodland, 
Sergts. R. R. McAtee, G. L. Fincham, S. G. Hunter, G. W. Lichtenberger, 
W. W. Tomkins, Corpls. J. G. Moe, O. Newman, H. A. Lister, B. G. Crowther. 

Privates. — J. B. Douahoo, N. Donahoo, T. M. Enters, H. J. Ewing, W. 
Einselen, W. B. Farnsworth, R. A. Hood, J. E. Jackson, A. Katz, W. A. 
Knott, J. B. Murphy, Jr., W. T. Myers, Jr., J. W. McMeekin, H. Newman, 
H. Ogden, S. W. Peck, F. Reese, W. H. Weikel, M. Weiner. 

COMPANY D. 

Capt. Joseph L. Dunn, 1st Lieut. L. F. Horter, 2d Lieut. H. S. Ellis, Sergts. 
J. Lutz, J. D. Patterson, C. Thomas, R. J. Dunn, Corjjls. S. Gilliard, W. Han- 
ber, M. C. Winterbottom, W. C. Rhoades, J. R. Spink, H. Summers. 

Privates. — J. R. Clayton, O. Davey, F. Dungan, H. Dungan, R. Gibson, 
H. Hansbury, E. Hambleton, E. Horter, S. Hough, W. Magill, J. Miller, H. 
Lewis, R. Rich, G. Rathman, H. Slater, H. Sipler, H. Veditz, — . Wooley. 

OFFICIAL ESCORT ACCOMPANYING HON. JOHN E. REYBURN, MAY- 
OR OF PHILADELPHIA, TO ATLANTA, GEORGIA, 
OCTOBER 7TH TO 13TH, 1911. 



INFANTRY BATTALION STATE FENCIBLES. 



Commandant, Major Thurber T. Brazer; Adjutant, Capt. Thomas S. Lanard; 
Quartermaster, Capt. Edw. E. Packer; Commissary, Capt. A. H. Burton; 
Surgeon, Capt. Frank N. Greene ; Engineer, Capt. Geo. S. Davis ; Sergeant 
Major, Henry Porter; Chief Musician, Daniel W. Lanard, Jr.; Quartermaster 
Sergeant, William H. Hinkle; Commissary Sergeant, Charles H. Merkle; 
Color Sergeant, Matthew Hayes ; Hospital Sergeant, F. Wilson Glass. 

COMPANY A. 
Capt. John Drummond Garcia, 1st Lieut. Edw. Engle, 2d Lieut, (vacant). 

COMPANY B. 
Capt. Edw. L. Lanneau, 1st Lieut, (vacant), 2d Lieut. George Porter. 

COMPANY C. 
Capt. Edwin J. Prittie, 1st Lieut. Montraville H. Smith, Jr., 2d Lieut. 
Henry L. Woodland. 

COMPANY D. 
Capt. Joseph L. Dunn, 1st Lieut, (vacant), 2d Lieut. H. Stanley Ellis. 



1911 • MUSTEE ROLLS XV 

ENLISTED MEN. 

Stanley W. Allen, Harry Albrij,Hit. Frank D. Beans, Edw. J. Belfi, Heiioen 
Beard, Mont. Billman, Kasniir Bogucki, John Burbeck, Lester Uurwt'll, 
William Boyd, A. F. Burbidge, Leonard Glower, William Cowperthwait, John 
F. Conrad,** Charles C. Coleman,** Willard Clough, Robert J. Dunn,** John 
Durges, Harry Dungan, Charles Diemand, Cliarles E. English, Josei»h Eber- 
hart, Grover L. Fincham,** Aug. Fabrizi, Jacob Fuhs, Josejjh B. Fowler, 
Wm. B. Farnsworth, Charles A. Frey, Augustine F. Garcia, Paul L. Garcia, 
Levin Grossi, Louis Grier, Harry Himelfarb, Saml. G. Hunter,** Walter G. 
Hanstein, Frank Hunter, D. Webster Hartzell, Wm. G. Horney, Frederick 
Horn, Harry Heins, Benjamin Jamison,** Bruno Jelniche, Benj. Jagger, 
William J. Kennedy, James J. Keating,* William B. Kerr, Mark Kreible, 
George Koehler, William M. Lanard, Herbert A. Lister,* Ralph D. Lister, John 
Lutz,** John M. Ledlie, Edwin S. Ledlie, Wm. H. Magill,* James W. Mc- 
Meekin, Harry Mullen, Clarence W. Moore, James B. Murphy, Jr., John G. 
Moe,* William Mahoney, Harry Morad, Robert R. McAtee,** Charles Norato, 
Otto Newman, Herbert Owens, Charles Ottinger, James Patterson,** Edward 

A. Pennington, Edw. W. Packer, Wm. K. Pennington, John F. Priesendanz, 
Walter C. Rhoades.* Nathan P. Rile, Harold Riddough,* Frank Sudell, William 
W. Smith, Harold St. Clair, Harry Schoppe, Norman Shronk, Lemanuel Sichcl, 
Wm. W. Tompkins,** John H. Voightsburg, James I. Wilson, Chas. J. Williams, 
Merton C. Winterbottom,* Joseph D. Ward, Charles Whitaker. 

OLD GUARD STATE FENCIBLES. 

Commandant, Maj. Emanuel Furth. 

Senior Vice Commander, Capt. Edward McEwen, 

Adjutant, Capt. Samuel H. K. Shaffer. 

Quartermaster, Lieut. H. Le Grand Ensign. 

Commissary, Lieut. Jacob Bieg. 

Paymaster, Capt. John H. Benner. 

Surgeon, Lieut. George O. Wetherbee. 
W. E. Birmingham, Frank T. Bacon, Geo. Barbier, J. W. Clark, Lewis 
Conn, John C. Esher, Aaron D. Egolf, C. E. Glentworth, Nicholas Holden, 
Jos. P. Kneipp, Ben. H. Kirkbride, F. W, Lawrence, Gus. A. Maier, Jr., 

B. J. McNichol, David R. Porter, Geo. H. Ruth, Emile Riehl, R. J. Thompson, 
W. M. Thompson, Saml. H. Tool, R. P. Schellinger, Wm. B. White, W. A. 
Wert, Howard Weiss. 



HONORARY MEMBERS OF THE STATE FENCIBLES. 

1821— Thomas Altemus, Esq.f 

1823 — Lieut. William Gravenstine,t William V. Hagner, Esq.,t Adam Levy, 

Esq.f 
1824 — Fred. Aechternacht, Esq. 



**Sergeant. •Corporal. 

tAlso served as an active member. 



xvi ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1825-63 

1825 — Joseph Franks, Washington Watson, Esq., Samuel White, Esq., -Tames 
M. Banden, Esq., George Teese, Esq., John Clotworthy, Esq., Thomas 
Wilmer, Esq., Joseph M. Rhoades, Esq., David Mount, Esq. 

1826 — David McGinley, Esq., Isaac Albertson, Esq., Gilbert Gans, Esq., John 
Cassady, Esq., Samuel Hallman, Esq., Francis German, Esq., Jacob 
Weckerly.* 

1827 — Lewis R. Pearson, Esq., Edward Morrison, Esq., Chas. D. Benjamin,* 
James Fisher,* Col. Peter A. Browne,* Capt. Daniel Saint, U. S. A., 
John D. Maloney, M. McConnell,* Capt. Jacob S. Dickinson, Governor's 
Guards, New Jersey; Capt. Charles M. Peat, P. M., Tompkins Blues, 
New York; Col. John G. Watmough, U. S. A., 128 Regt. P. V.; Lieut. 
Col. Henry J. Williams, 128 Regt. P. V. M.;* Andrew Butler, Esq.* 

1828 — Capt. John Lowry, Princeton Vol., New Jersey; Capt. W. W. Tomp- 
kins, Tompkins Blues, New York ; Capt. James Miller, Williamson 
Guards, New Jersey; Gen. A. M. Muir, New York.* 

1831 — John B. Barris;* James Day;* Capt. Henry W. Kinsman, City 
Guards, Boston, Mass. ; Lieut. John C. Park, City Guards, Boston, Mass. ; 
Capt. Samuel Yohe, Washington Grays, Easton, Pa.; Lieut. William M. 
Field, Washington Grays, Easton, Pa. ; Lieut. Burk, Washington Grays, 
Easton, Pa. ; Lieut. Barnet, Washington Grays, Easton, Pa. 

1832 — William Ripperger,* Sergt. George Binder,* Col. Richard M. Johnson, 
U. S. A., Ky. 

1833 — Col. J. Mulvany, Ohio; Maj. N. Nathans, Philadelphia; Samuel Sit- 
greaves, Esq., Easton ; J. McPherson, Esq., New York. 

1834— C. V. Hagner.* 

1835 — Capt. Edward Vincent, Light Guard, New York; Lieut. H. E. Lorde, 
Light Guard, New York; Capt. J. C. Zabriskie, Governor's Guards, 
New Jersey; M. Goodwin, Esq., Philadelphia. 

1838 — J. Traubat, M.D., Philadelphia; Joseph Feniour;* Thomas B. McElwee, 
Esq., Harrisburg; William Bostick, Esq., Harrisburg; W. D. Boas, Esq., 
Harrisburg; J. A. Chandler, Esq., Harrisburg; A^alentine Hummel, Esq., 
Harrisburg; C. F. Muench, Esq., Harrisburg; Thomas L. Wilson, Esq., 
Harrisburg; Jerome K. Boyer, Esq., Harrisburg; George S. Kemble, 
Esq., Harrisburg; Heister H. Muhlenburg, Esq., Harrisburg. 

1839— George Carroll, Esq.* 

1844— Orlando B. Griffith,* Lieut. B. J. Williams.* 

1846— Capt. R. B. Marcy, U. S. A.; Lieut. R. Crittendon, U. S. A. 

1849 — John Middleton,* John Miller,* Lieut. Robert J. Park.* 

1851 — Lieut. Martin Leans.* 

1852— Sergt. Albert Stewart. 

1860 — Col, D. H. Williams, Reading, Pa.; Col. Jeremiah McKibben, Esq.; 
Col. John Broadhead, Reading, Pa. 

1863 — Col. James Page,* Col. Theodore Hesser,* Col. John Thornley,* Capt. 
John Miller,* Lieut. John Melloy,* Lieut. Jacob J. Seitzinger,* Surg. 
Frank Seitzinger,* Maj. W. B. Cloud, U. S. A.,* Lieut. E. W. Smith,* 
Lieut. John T. Hawkins,* Lieut. Matthew T. Grier,* Capt. William A. 



*Also served as an active member. 



1863-90 HONORARY MEMBERS xvii 

Elsegood,* Scrgt. Aug. Hcadrick,* Sergt. Andrew .J. Fislier,* Thomas 
Moore,* W. K. Pierce,* Richard Ilaist,* Edvv. E. Packer,,* Chas. T. 
Packer,* John M. Bisbing,* John W. Davis,* James M. Colgan,* Wm. 
Dixon,* Herman Headrick,* Henry Headrick,* W. Wilson,* Colter Russell,* 
M. Smith,* John Potter,* Dr. C. L. Munns,* James Aiken,* James 
Miller,* James L. Upton,* Samuel Warthman,* J. S. Phillips, Esq., 
T. G. Miller, Esq., L. R. Rentz, Esq., Col. Eli G. Sellers, Thomas Regan, 
Esq., W. H. Miller, Esq. 
1872 — E. M. Benson, Esq., J. Fleishman, Esq., Edward North, Esq., W. C. 
Wimer, Esq., W, C. Vinyard, Esq., Sig. Antonia Blitz, Esq., C. L. Hale, 
Esq., C. Blazin, Esq., Jacob A. Yost, Esq., A. Disston, Esq., F. E. 
Ruber, Esq., C. C. Overbeck, Esq., E. G. Price, Esq., G. K. Zeigler, ?:sq., 
W. Fennell, Esq., Hon. Wm. D. Kelley,* Dr. Edward C. Wykoff," James 

E. Packer, Esq., J. J. Breban, Esq., H. A. Bergman, Esq., C. llaflBe- 
finger, Esq., Charles F. Sauter, Esq., F. P. Sheehan, Esq., S. D, Ander- 
son, Esq., Capt. V. P. Donnelly,* Charles V. Hagner, Esq., J. Brinkhardt, 
Esq., J. P. Binder, Esq. 

1873 — J. Bonham, Esq., W. F. Keichline, Esq., Capt. Robert H. Ford,* Lieut. 
A. J. Knorr,* M. King, Esq., Col. Wm. Wood, Gordon Gavit, Ehc\., 
P. J. Langor, Esq., E. Andrews, Esq., F. Grubb, Esq., H. Wishart, Esq., 

F. K. Walton, Esq., D. J. Walton, Esq., Jere L, Hutchenson, Esq., 
Capt. George W. Briggs, Gen. Gideon Clark, Edward Sterringer, Esq., 
Hamilton Disston, Esq., J. Neal, Esq. 

1874— Adjt. Gen. James W. Latta, J. Holly, Esq., D. Griffenburg, Esq., Capt. 
J. Strathman, San Francisco, Cal., J. Bisbing, Esq., P. A. Reese, Esq., 
J. T. Pratt, Esq., G. C. Wilkins, Esq., W. T. Corson, Esq., L. Gauler, 
Esq., G. M Dennington, Esq., T. McArthur, Esq., N. Evans, Esq. 

1875— E. G. Maize, Esq., Capt. D. Pratt, Boston Fusileers, Col. W. I. Wallace, 
H. C. Brolasky, Esq., Michael Gingrich,* L. Klein, Esq., H. S. Hannis, 
Esq., G. L. Brown, Esq., J. A. Clark, Esq., Gen. William M. Reilly, 
Elwood Rowan, Esq., L. B. Shengle, Esq., F. Stehle, Esq., A. Sotwell, 
Esq., A. P. Welte, Esq., Peter Valer, Esq. 

1876— J. Geisenberger, Sr., Esq., W. T. Keabler, Esq. 

1877— Charles E. Pugh, Esq., F. Orth, Esq., S. N. Winslow, Esq., G. Stapp, Esq. 

1878— Capt. William M. Baugh, W. L. Sharp, Esq., Col. Robert. L. Orr, William 
M. Bower,* Samuel Moore.* 

1879 — John McCullough, Tragedian; M. L. Johnston, Esq. 

1881— E. H. Goodman, Esq. 

1883 — Miss Mary Anderson, Tragedienne; William Singerly, Esq., Gen. Louis 
Wagner, Col. William B. Smith, R. S. Davis, Esq., Dr. McKelvey. 

1884— W. E. Stewart, F. M., William H. Nagle, Esq., Capt. G. W. P. Simpson,* 
Capt. R. R. Bringhurst,* Lieut. Edward S. McGlue, C. Bryham, Esq., 
W. F. Belsterling, Esq., Albert Ladner, Esq., C. Byrns, Esq. 

1888— Col. J. T. Nicholson. 

1889 — G. Griffin, Esq., J. E. Johnston, Esq., John Sailor, Esq. 

1890— George H. Ruth,* J. Y. Huber, Esq., T. Engle, Esq. 

*Also served as an active member. 



xviii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1893-1902 

1893— Maj. W. Wes. Chew.* 

1894 — Maj. William A. Witherup.* 

1898— Capt. R. P. Schellinger,* Hon. Charles E. Warwick, Capt. William E. 

Sharps.* 
1899— H. W. Pierson, Esq., Col. Sergt. Stephen Barbier.* 
1900— Lieut. Charles Berger,* William G. Carroll,* Capt. William R. Scott,* 

Sergt. Maj. James C. Stimmel,* A. M. Friend,* Joshua L. Bartly,* 

Charles H. Vanfleet, Esq., Capt. George Christie,* Capt. Samuel P. 

Holmes,* Capt. Charles S. Rebsher,* Capt. L. F. Baker,* Capt. John 

H. Benner,* Capt. A. H. Burton,* Hon. Samuel H. Ashbridge, Capt. 

George W. Rea,* Lieut. John D. Worman,* Fred. Chandler,* Maj. Gen. 

George R. Snowden, Capt. Peter Lyle Weaver, W. H. Furness Wood, 

Esq. 
1901— Emanuel Furth.* 
1902 — James P. McNichol, Esq., William McCoach, Esq. 



FOR COMPARISON WE HAVE SET FORTH THE MANUAL OF ARMS, 

U. S. REGULATIONS, AS USED BY THE FENCIBLES 

ABOUT 1836 AND 1913. 



Manual of Arms, 1836. 



Manual of Arms, 1913. 



SHOULDERED ARMS. 

The musket in the left hand, tne 
arm being a little bent; the elbow 
back, and joined to the body without 
pressure ; the palm of the hand firmly 
against the exterior rounding of the 
butt ; the exterior edge of the butt 
resting on the joints of the fingers 
next the palm ; the heel of the butt 
resting between the first and second 
lingers ; the thumb above in front ; 
the third and little fingers under the 
butt, which must be more or less 
kept back, according to the conforma- 
tion of the recruit, in such manner, 
that the firelock, seen from the front, 
may rest always perpendicular, and 
that the movement of the thigh, in 
marching, nmy not derange it in its 
perpendicular position ; the ramrod 
against the hollow of the shoulder; 
the right arm hanging naturally. 



RIGHT SHOULDER — -ARMS. 

(1) With the right hand raise and 
throw the piece diagonally across the 
body, carry the right hand quickly 
to the butt, embracing it, the heel 
between the first two fingers. (2) 
Without changing the grasp of the 
rignt hand, place the piece on the 
right shoulder, barrel up and inclined 
at an angle of about 45 degrees from 
the horizontal, trigger guard in the 
hollow of the shoulder, right elbow- 
near the side, the piece in a vertical 
plane peri^endicular to the front ; 
carry the left hand, thumb and fingers 
extended and joined, to the small of 
the stock, tip of the fore-finger touch- 
ing the cocking place, wrist straight 
and elbow down. (3) Drop the left 
hand by the side. 



*Also served as an active member. 



1836-1913 MANUAL xix 

Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual of Arms, 1913. 

support — arms. 

First motion. — Grasp smartly the 
tirelock about four inches below the 
lock, \Yithout turning it, and raise it 
a little. 

Second motion. — Quit the butt with 
the left hand, placing the left fore- 
arm extended across the breast sup- 
porting the cock ; the hand on the 
right breast. 

Third motion. — Let the right hand 
fall smartly to its position. 

CARRY — ARMS. 

First motion. — With the right hand 
grasp smartly the small of the stock. 

Second motion. — Place the left 
hand smartly under the butt. 

Third motion. — Let the right hand 
drop smartly to the right .side, and at 
the same time, sink the firelock to the 
position of the shouldered arms. 

SLOPE — ARMS. 

One motion. Carry the firelock 
sloped indifferently on either shoulder, 
or with either hand; the muzzle al- 
ways well up. 

CARRY — ARMS. 

At this command, the soldiers will 
quickly resume the habitual position 
of shouldered arms. 

PRESENT — ARMS. 

First motion. — Turn the firelock With the right hand carry the piece 

with the left hand, the lock outwards, in front of the center of the body, 

at the same time seizing the small of barrel to the rear and vertical, grasp 

the stock with the right hand, the it with the left hand at the balance, 

firelock being supported perpendicu- fore-arm horizontal and resting 

larly, on the palm of the left hand against the body. (Two) Grasp the 

remaining under the butt. small of the stock with the right 

Second motion. — Complete the turn- hand, 
ing inwards of the firelock, with the 
right hand, in order to carry it per- 
pendicularly opposite to the left eye, 



XX ONE HUNDKED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-1913 

Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual of Arms, 1913. 

the ramrod in front, and the cock as 
high as the lowest coat button, hold- 
ing the firelock with the right hand, 
under and against the guard; seize it 
smartly, at the same time, with the 
left hand above the lock, the little 
finger touching the feather spring, 
the thumb extended along the barrel, 
and against the stock, the fore-arm 
joined to the body, without constraint, 
and remain fronted, without moving 
the feet. 

SHOULDER — ARMS. 

First motion. — Turn the firelock 
with the right hand, barrel outwards; 
raise, and place it against the left 
shoulder with the right hand; let fall 
the left hand under the butt, the right 
hand held easy against the small of 
the stock. 

Second motion. — Let the right hand 
fall smartly to its position. 

ORDER — ARMS. 

First motion. — Sink down smartly The butt rests evenly on the ground, 

the firelock to the full extent of the barrel to the rear, toe of the butt on 
left arm, seizing it, at the same time, a line with toe of, and touching, the 
with the right hand, above, and near right shoe, arms and hands hanging 
the tail pipe; quit it with the left naturally, right hand holding the 
hand, and carry it opposite to the piece between the thumb and fingers, 
right shoulder, the ramrod in front, 
the little finger behind the barrel, the 
butt three inches from the ground, 
the right hand supported against the 
haunch, the firelock perpendicular, and 
the left hand hanging freely by the 
side. 

Second motion. — Let the firelock 
slip throng the hand, and fall easy to 
the ground, assuming the position 
about to be described. 

POSITION OF ORDERED ARMS. 

The hand must be sunk low; the 
barrel between the thumb and fore- 
finger extended along the stock; the 



1836-1913 MANUAL xxi 

Manual op Arms, 1836. Manual op Arms, 1913. 

other three fingers extended and 
joined; the muzzle about two inches 
from the right shoulder; the ramrod 
in front; the beak (that is in this po- 
sition the front) of the butt in a line 
with the toes, and the barrel perpen- 
dicular. If the ground be mud<ly tlie 
butt may rest on the right foot. 

SHOULDER — ARMS. 

First motion. — Raise smartly the 
firelock with the right hand; carry it 
to the left shoulder, turning the barrel 
to the front; place, at the same time, 
the left hand under the butt, and slip 
the right hand down to the lock, the 
little finger resting against the ham- 
mer. 

Second motion. — Let the right hand 
fall smartly to its position. 

TRAIL — ARMS. 

First motion. — The first motion of Raise the piece, right arm slightly 

order arms. bent, and incline the muzzle forward 

Second motion. — Incline forward a so that the barrel makes an angle of 

little the muzzle of the firelock, the about 30 degrees with the vertical, 

butt towards the rear, and about When it can be done without danger 

three inches from the ground. The or inconvenience to others, the piece 

right hand against the haunch, will may be grasped at the balance and 

steady the firelock in such manner, the muzzle lowered until the piece is 

that the bayonets of the men of the horizontal; a similar position in the 

rear rank ^\-ill not touch the men in left hand may be used, 
front. 

SHOULDER — ARMS. 

At the word shoulder, raise the fire- 
lock perpendicular in the right hand. 
At the word arms, execute what has 
been prescribed for shouldering, from 
order arms. 



SECURE — ARMS. 



First motion. — Grasp smartly the 
fire lock with the right hand, the 
thumb against the S, and the fore- 
finger against the cock; detach at 
the same time, the firelock from the 



xxii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-1913 

Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual of Arms, 1913. 

shoulder, keeping the barrel outwards; 
seize the firelock at the swell, with 
the left hand; the thumb extended 
along the ramrod, the firelock j^erpen- 
dicular opposite the shoulder, the left 
elbow pressing on the firelock. 

Second motion. — Bring down the 
muzzle of the fire lock, the lock under 
the left arm, the left hand remaining 
at the swell, the thumb pressing 
against the ramrod to prevent its slid- 
ing out, the right hand falling, at the 
same time, into its position. 

SHOULDER — ARMS. 

First motion. — Raise the firelock, 
but not too suddenly, lest the ramrod 
should escape from its pipes; seize 
it with the right hand at the small, 
to support it against the shoulder, at 
the same time quit the firelock with 
the left hand, placing it smartly un- 
der the butt. 

Second motion. — Let the right hand 
fall quickly into its position, sinking 
at the same time, the firelock wath the 
left hand, to the proper position of 
shouldered arms. 

UNFIX BAYONET. 

First motion. — Sink down the fire- If the bayonet scabbard is carried 
lock by extending the left arm, grasp on the belt: Execute parade rest; 
it at the same time, with the right grasp the handle of the bayonet firm- 
hand above and near the swell, as in ly Avith the right hand, jiressing the 
the first motion of order arms. spring with the forefinger of the right 

Second motion. — With the right hand ; raise the bayonet until the 
hand lower the firelock along the left handle is about 12 inches above the 
thigh to the ground; seize it with the muzzle of the piece; drop the point 
left hand above the right, in order to the left, back of the hand toward 
to assume the position of the second the body, and, glancing at the scab- 
motion of cast about, but without bard, return the bayonet, the blade 
placing the right heel before the hoi- passing between the left arm and the 
low of the left foot, strike off the body; regrasp the piece with the right 
bayonet with the right hand, return- hand and resume the order, 
ing it into the scabbard, leaving the If the bayonet scabbard is carried 
right hand near the socket. on the haversack : Take the bayonet 

Third motion. — Raise the firelock from the rifle with the left hand and 



1836-1913 



MANUAL 



xxui 



Manual of Arms, 183G. 

with the left hand, seize it at the 
small with the right, resuming the 
position of shouldered arms. 



Manual of Arms, 1913. 

return it to the scabbard in the most 
convenient manner. If marching or 
lying down, the bayonet is fixed and 
unfixed in the most expeditious and 
convenient manner and the (liece re- 
turned to the original position. 

Fix and unfix bayonet are executeil 
with promptness and regnhirity hut 
not in cadence. 



FIX BAYONET. 



First motion. — As in the first mo- 
tion of unfix bayonet. 

Second motion. — As the second mo- 
tion of unfix bayonet, except that the 
right hand will seize the socket of the 
bayonet, as prescribed, in inspection 
of arms, in order to draw it from The 
scabbard, and carry it smartly to the 
muzzle; the right hand remaining at 
the shank of the bayonet. 

Third motion. — Shoulder arms as 
explained in the third motion of un- 
fix bavonets. 



Tf the bayonet scabbard is carried 
on the belt : Execute parade rest ; 
grasp the bayonet with the right hand, 
back of the hand toward the body; 
draw the bayonet from the scabbard 
and fix it on the barrel, glancing at 
the muzzle; resume the order. 

If the bayonet is carried on the 
haversack : Draw the bayonet with 
the left hand and fix in tlie most con- 
venient manner. 



CHARGE BAYONET. 



First motion. — As the first motion 
of load, grasping the firelock two 
incites below the cock. 

Second motion. — Bring down the 
firelock with the right hand into the 
left, which seizes it a little above the 
swell, the barrel uppermost, the left 
elbow near the body, the right hand 
against the right haunch, the point 
of the bayonet as high as the eye. 
The men in the rear rank will take 
care to avoid touching the men, who 
are in front of them, with their bayo- 
nets. 



Whether executed at halt or in 
motion, the bayonet is held toward tlie 
opponent as in the position of guard 
in the Manual for Bavonet Exercises. 



SHOULDER ARMS. 



First motion. — Turn to the front 
on the left heel; bring up the right 
heel to the side of, and in a line with 
the left ; and spring up at the same 
time, the firelock with the right hand 



xxiv ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-1913 

Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual of Arms, 1913. 

to the left shoulder, placing the left 
hand under the butt. 

Second motion. — Let the right hand 
fall smartly to its place. 

RECOVER — ARMS. 

One motion. — Turn the firelock with 
the left hand, the barrel to the rear, 
seize it smartly with the right hand 
at the small stock; carry the left 
above the lock, the little finger touch- 
ing the feather-spring, the lock as 
high and in front of the shoulder, the 
firelock perpendicular, and elbows 
close. 

CARRY — ARMS. 

First motion. — Turn the firelock 
with the right hand, the barrel to the 
front, bringing it to the shouldered 
arms, and bring the left hand to the 
butt. 

Second motion. — Drop the right 
hand. 



Load by twelve commands. At the command load each front- 

1. LOAD. rank man or skirmisher faces half 

First motion. — Half face to tlie right and carries the right foot to the 

right, on the left heel placing at the right, about 1 foot, to such position 

same time the right foot square be- as will insure the greatest firmness 

hind the left heel, the hollow of the and steadiness of the body ; raises, or 

foot resting against that heel ; turn lowers, the piece and drops it into 

the firelock with the left hand, the the left hand at the balance, left 

lock outwards, at the same time seiz- thumb extended along the stock, muz- 

ing the small of the stock with the zle at the height of the breast, and 

right hand, the firelock being detached turns the cut-oflf up. With the right 

from the shoulder, and supported per- hand he turns and draws the bolt 

pendicularly, on the palm of the left back, takes a loaded clip and inserts 

hand remaining under the butt. the end in the clip slots, places the 

Second motion. — With the right thumb on the powder space of the 

hand bring down the firelock into the top cartridge, the fingers extending 

left, which receives it at the swell, around the piece and tips resting on 

the thumb extended, the butt under the magazine floor plate ; forces the 

the right forearm, the small resting cartridges into the magazine by press- 

against the body under the right ing down with the thumb; without 

breast; the muzzle as high as the removing the clip, thrusts the bolt 



1836-1913 



MANUAL 



XXV 



Manual of Arms, 1836. 

eyes; the guard turned a little out- 
ward, the left elbow supported on 
the side of the haunch; the thumb of 
the right hand will be placed agaiust 
the hammer above the flint, at the 
moment the firelock is thrown into the 
left hand; the four fingers of the 
right hand shut, the right forearm 
along the butt. 

2. OPEN PAN. 

One motion. — Throw open the pan 
with the thumb of the right hand, the 
left hand holding the piece firmly, 
draw back the right elbow, carry the 
hand to the cartoueh box passing it 
between tlie butt and body, and open 
the cartridge box. 

3. HANDLE CARTRIDGE. 

One motion. Take the cartridge 
with the thumb and two first fingers, 
place it between the teeth, the right 
hand passing between the body and 
the butt. 

4. TEAR CARTRIDGE. 

One motion. Tear the cartridge, 
holding it near the opening, sink 
down the cartridge holding it perpen- 
dicularly against the pan, the palm of 
the right hand turned towards the 
body, the right elbow agaiust the 
butt. 

5. PRIME. 
One motion. Sink forward the 
head, cast the eyes to the pan, filling 
it with powder; press close the top of 
the cartridge at the opening, between 
the thumb and forefinger ; raise the 
head, place the right hand behind the 
pan, holding the little and third fin- 
ger firm against the back of the pan. 

6. SHUT PAN. 

One motion. Hold the firelock 
firm with the left hand ; shut the 
pan forcibly with the two last fingers- 
holding always the cartridge between 
the thumb and two fore-fingers; 



Manual op Arms, 1913. 

home, turning down the handle; turns 
the safety lock to the ' ' safe ' ' and 
carries the hand to the small of the 
stock. Each rear-rank man moves to 
the right front, takes a similar posi- 
tion opposite the interval to the right 
of his front-rank man, muzzle of the 
piece extending beyond the front rank 
and loads. 

A skirmish line may load while 
moving, the pieces being held ba 
nearly as practicable in the position 
of load. 



xxvi ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-191;) 

Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual op Arms, 1913. 

seize immediately the small of the 
stock with the two last fingers and 
palm of the right hand; the right 
wrist close to the body, the elbow to 
the rear, and a little detached from 
the body. 

7. CAST 'bout. 

First motion. — With the right arm 
smartly stretched, without lowering 
the right shoulder, swing around the 
firelock to the left thigh, along which 
the butt must press strongly, turning 
at the same time, the ramrod towards 
the body, opening and letting the 
piece slip through the left hand as 
far as the middle pipe, the locu rest- 
ing on the thumb of the right land; 
face at the same time to the front, 
turning on the left heel, carrying the 
right foot forAvara, tlie heei resting 
against the licllow of the left. 

Second motion. — Quit the firelock 
with the right hand, sinking it with 
the left, along and rear th.j body, 
raising at the same time the right 
hand to the muzzle, holding the top 
of the cartridge up; let the butt fall 
to the ground gently, the left hand 
against the body, under tl'.e lowest 
coat button, the musket in contact 
with the left thigh, the butt o*' the 
ramrod opposite the center of the 
body. 

8. CHARGE CARTRIDGE. 

One motion. Glance the eye to 
the muzzle of the barrel, turn smartly 
the upper .side of the right hand 
towards the body, in order to dis- 
charge the powder into the muzzle, 
raising the elbow as high as the wrist ; 
shake the cartridge and insert it in 
the barrel, and leave the hand re- 
versed, the fingers closed without 
pressure. 



1836-1913 MANUAL 

Manual of Arms, 183G. Manual of Arms, 1913 

9. DRAW ramrod. 

First motion. — Ijower smartly the 
right elbow, and seize the ramrod be- 
tween tlie thumb and forefinger bent, 
the other fingers closed ; draw smart- 
ly, extending the arm, the nails upper- 
most; seize it backhanded at tlie mid- 
dle, with the forefinger and thumb, 
the palm of the hand outwards; turn 
it quickly between the bayonet and 
the body, at the same time closing 
the fingers upon it; the ramrods of 
the men in the rear rank grazing the 
right shoulder of the front-rank man 
of their file ; the ramrod parallel to 
the bayonet, the arm extended, the 
eyes upward, tlie butt of the ramrod 
opposite the muzzle, without being 
inserted. 

Second motion. — Insert the butt of 
the ramrod as low as the hand. 

10. RAM CARTRIDGE. 

One motion. Extend the arm its 
whole length, in raising the right hand 
to seize the ramrod with the thumb 
extended and the forefinger bent, the 
other fingers being closed, drive the 
ramrod forcibly into the barrel, ram- 
ming home twice; seize it again by 
the small end, between the thumb and 
forefinger bent, the others closed, 
the Tight elbow close to the body. 

11. RETURN RAMROD. 

First motion. — As in the first mo- 
tion of drawing ramrod, bring the 
small end of it opposite to the upper 
pipe, and hold it there without en- 
tering it. 

Second motion. — Introduce the 
small end of the pipe and force it into 
place; raise the right hand quickly, 
and place it, somewhat bent on the 
butt of the ramrod, the palm down- 
wards. 



xxvn 



XXviii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-1913 



Manual of Arms, 1836. 

12. shoulder arms. 

First motion. — Raise the firelock 
with the left hand, along the left side, 
the left hand as high as the shoulder, 
the left elbow resting on the firelock, 
keeping the barrel outwards; at the 
same time sink down the right hand 
in order to seize the firelock, at the 
small of the stock. 

Second motion. — Raise the firelock 
with the right hand ; let the left hand 
fall to seize and spport the butt, car- 
rying back at the same time, the right 
heel to the side of the left, and in the 
same alignment; support the firelock 
against, and at the left shoulder with 
the right hand in the position indi- 
cated for shouldered arras, the right 
hand touching the small of the stock 
without pressing against it. 

Third motion. — Let the right hand 
fall smartly to the right thigh, hang- 
ing there as already prescribed. 



Manual of Arms, 1913. 



First motion. — As in the first mo- 
tion of loading. 

Second motion. — Bring the firelock 
with the right hand before the mid- 
dle of the body, place the left hand 
with the little finger touching the 
feather-spring, and the thumb as high 
as the chin, pointing upwards along 
the wood of the stock, the S (or plate 
opposite to the lock) being turned 
almost towards the body, the ramrod 
towards the front ; and apply at the 
same time, the thumb of the right 
hand to the head of the cock, the 
forefinger under, and against the 
guard, and the three other fingers 
joined to the first. 

Third motion. — Sink down smartly 
the right elbow, cocking at the same 
time, and seizie the firelock at the 
small of the stock. 



TO FIRE BY VOLLEY. 
1. READY. 2. AIM. 3. SQUAD. 4. FIRE. 

At the command ready turn the 
safety lock to the ' ' ready ; " at the 
command aim raise the piece with 
both hands and support the butt firmly 
against the hollow of the right shoul- 
der, right thumb clasping the stock, 
barrel horizontal, left elbow well under 
the piece, right elbow as high as the 
shoulder; incline the head slightly 
forward and a little to the right, 
cheek against the 'stock, left eye 
closed, right eye looking through the 
notch of the rear sight so as to per- 
ceive the object aimed at, second joint 
of forefinger resting lightly against 
the front of the trigger and taking 
up the slack; top of front sight is 
carefully raised into, and held in, the 
line of sight. 

Each rear-rank man aims through 



1836-1913 



MANUAL 



XXIX 



Manuax, of Arms, 1836. 



Manual of Arms, 1913. 

the interval to the right of his file 
leader and leans slightly forward to 
advance the muzzle of liis piece be- 
yond the front rank. 

In aiming kneeling, the left elbow 
rests on the left knee, point of elbow 
in front of kneecap. In aiming sit- 
ting, the elbows are supported by the 
knees. 

In aiming lying down, raise the 
piece with both hands; rest on both 
elbows and press the butt firmly 
against the right shoulder. 

At the command ^re press the fin- 
ger against the trigger; fire without 
deranging the aim and without lower- 
ing or turning the piece ; reload. 

To continue the firing: 

1. AIM. 2. SQUAD. 3. FIRE. 

Each command is executed as pre- 
viously explained. Load (from mag- 
azine) is executed by drawing back 
and thrusting home the bolt with the 
right hand, leaving the safety lock at 
the ' ' ready. ' ' 



One motion. Sink down smartly 
the muzzle of the piece, slipping the 
left hand along the stock, as far as 
the tail pipe; apply the butt to the 
right shoulder; the muzzle a little be- 
low the level of the right eye; the 
elbows kept lowered; shut the left 
eye; look along the barrel with the 
right eye; lower the head towards the 
butt in order to aim ; and place the 
forefinger on the trigger. The men 
in the rear rank will at the same time 
step with the right foot eight inches 
to the right towards the left heel of 
the man on their right, throwing the 
weight of the body on the right leg. 
That the soldier may be habituated 
to wait for the word fire, the in- 
structor shall frequently order arms 
to be recovered by the following com- 
mand : 

30 



XXX 



ONE HUNDEED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1836-1913 
Manual of Arms, 1836. Manual of Arms, 1913. 



RECOVER arms. 

One moiion. Eaise the firelock 
smartly, and resume the position of 
the third motion of ready. 

AIM. 

One motion. Done in the same 
manner as before prescribed. 

FIRE. 
One. motion. Apply with force, the 
first finger to the trigger, without 
moving the head, and remain in that 
position. 

LOAD. 

One motion. Bring down the fire- 
lock smartly into the position of the 
second motion of load, except that 
the thumb, in lieu of being placed 
against the hammer, will, with the 
forefinger bent, seize the top of the 
cock, the other fingers remaining shut. 
The men of the rear rank shall bring 
back the right foot behind the left, 
placing the hollow of that foot 
against the left heel. 

If, in this position, the instructor 
wishes to make the ranks reload, he 
will command : 

HALF-COCK — FIRELOCK. 

One motion. Raise the cock to the 
half-cock notch, taking care not to 
cock it; carry the right hand between 
the butt and the body to the cartridge 
box, and open it. When, instead of 
loading, the instructor wishes to 
shoulder arms, he will command: 

SHOULDER ARMS. 

At the word shoulder the recruits 
will half-cock, as has been explained, 
shut pan, and seize the firelock at the 
small of the stock. At the word 
arms, they will shoulder smartly and 
front. 



BIOGRAPHIES 

Hon. Joseph R. Ingersoll. 

Joseph R. Iiif^ersoll was born June 14th, 1786, the son of Jared 
Ingersoll, who graduated at Yale College in 1766, and shortly' after 
went to Enghind, where he studied law. The Revolution soon broke 
out and the elder Ingersoll at once attached himself to the patriotic 
cause. Returning to Philadelphia after the war, he became a mem- 
ber of the bar. He was a member of the Convention that made 
the Constitution of the United States. In 1822, when he died, he 
was President Judge of the District Court of Philadelphia. 

Joseph R. Ingersoll graduated at Princeton with high honors in 
1804, and was admitted to the bar in 1805. His career at the 
bar was very active as an examination from 3 Binney to Barr re- 
ports, will be foimd evidence of his industry. He was well read 
as a laviryer, and an orator of reputation and lecturer from the 
Lakes to the Gulf of IMexico. He had received a degree of LL.D 
from at least three literarj^ institutions. He was a man of letters, 
being acquainted thoroughly with literature of ancient and modem 
times. 

In 1836 he was elected to Congress and re-elected in 1842, and 
served until 1847. While in Congress, he opposed the repeal of 
the tariff of 1842, also opposed the annexation of Texas and the 
Sub-Treasury bill. In the 30th Congress, he was appointed Chair- 
man of the Judiciary Committee. 

In 1833 he lost his wife, she leaving then one son and a daughter. 

The last public service he rendered, was Resident ^Minister to 
the Court of St. James, England. He returned to this country 
in 1853. 

David Paul Brown, Esq., at a meeting of the Historical Society, 
held August 28th. 1869, to record a minute of his death, said inter 
alia: "As a son. husband, and father, he discharged the full meas- 
ure of his duties. His benevolence was prompt, active and sympa- 
thizing. I knew him better than any living man, and his morals 
pointed directly to heaven. He is gone and will be seen no more. 

xxxi 



xxxii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

His crowning glory is the remembrance of his life which will endure 
when others are gone and forgotten." 

His association with the Feneibles was very active. The call for 
the organization of the original company was from his pen. He 
served continuously for a number of years as an officer of the com- 
mand. He died February 20th. 1868. 



Captain Clement C. Biddle. 

Clement C. Biddle was a son of Col. Clement Biddle and was 
born in Philadelphia. October 24th. 1784. He received his ed- 
ucation at the University of Pennsylvania. His literary work was 
confined to the editing of a treatise on Political Economy by John 
Baptiste Say, which had been translated into English. He also 
wrote in the newspapers on political economy, and political sub- 
jects. He was among the organizers of the State Feneibles and 
was elected July 13th, 1813, its first captain. On September 23rd, 
1813, he made tender of the service of the company to Governor 
Snyder. When the Feneibles were mustered into service he was 
elected the Colonel of the Regiment and in that capacity served 
during the war. He was one of the incorporators of the Philadel- 
phia Saving Fund Society and was a Jackson Democrat. He 
served as secretary of the meeting held in October, 1824, in the 
interest of John Quincy Adams. In 1849, he signed the call for 
a town meeting favoring the consolidation of the city. 

Captain Biddle was a philanthropist in the true sense of the 
word, in his examples and writings, to teach the great lesson of 
economy and to show how individuals, by proper prudence, could 
be enabled to help themselves and not be required under ordinary 
circumstances, eleemosynary aid. His view on the domestic and 
industrial policy of this country were those of an enlightened 
statesman, liberal and enlarged in their scope, clear in their con- 
clusions, and based upon the surest principles of political science. 
His writings on this subject, have contributed largely to make the 
science popular, and he frequently exercised his pen in correcting 
popular errors on questions of public policy connected with the 
finances of the country, and the subject of the tariff. His educa- 
tion was liberal, his Imowledge extensive, and his judgment sound ; 
his intellect clear and acute, with a comprehensive capacity which 
embraced the entire subject of investigation. 



BIOGRAPHIES xxxiii 

He died August 21st, 1855, and at the request of the family there 
Avas no moilitary demonstration. The Corps attended the ruiicral 
in citizens dress. 



Captain IIartman Kuiin, Esq. 

November 6th, 1860, occurred the death of Hartman Kuhn, Esq., 
second captain of the State Fencibles. He was born February 4th, 
1784, on Second Street, below Chestnut. He was an accomplished 
officer and a brave soldier, serving with great credit at Camp Du- 
Pont. 



Captain John C. McCall. 

John C. McCall was born on the 24th day of December, 1793, and 
died in October, 1846. 

He was one of the organizers of the State Fencibles. He en- 
tered the service in the War of 1812 as a sergeant and returned 
a lieutenant. On May 12th, 1815, he was elected captain of the 
company and on June 27th, 1816, he tendered his resignation. 



Captain Charles F. Egberts. 

Charles F. Roberts was one of the organizers of the State Fen- 
cibles, and entered the service of the United States in the War of 
1812 as a private. 

On June 27th, 1817, he Avas elected captain of the company, and 
served until May 13th, 1819, when he tendered his resignation. 



Captain James Page. 

James Page was born in this City on the 8th of March. 1795, 
and had therefore entered upon his eighty-first year at the time of 
his death. His parents, Stephen and Mary Page, came to Philadel- 
phia from Virginia, but his boyhood was passed on a farm in 
Bucks County, to Avhich the family had subsequently moved. 
He there enjoyed very limited opportunities for acquiring an ed- 
ucation, but his surroundings were finally improved by a return 
to this City. He then entered the office of Col. Peter A. Browne, 
a successful laA\yer of those days, at first as an office boy, but soon 
after as a student of law. He was admitted to the bar on ]\Iarch 



xxxiv 0^'E HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

16th, 1816, as soon as he attained his majority; and especially 
during the years that he devoted to the exclusive practice of his 
profession, was very successful. 

In 1827, he entered upon political life for the first time, being 
•elected a member of the Common Council for the old City of Phila- 
delphia, and President of that body. From that date forward 
honors were showered thickly upon him, and during many years 
he was one of the most prominent men of the City. So numerous 
were the offices he held, that it is difficult to class them in chrono- 
logical order, especially as he frequently filled several at the same 
time. 

On the 16th of April, 1833, he was appointed postmaster of 
Philadelphia by the Hon. Wm. T. Barry, who then filled the office 
of Postmaster General of the United States. This appointment was 
renewed by President Andrew Jackson for four years, to date from 
the 2nd of July, 1836. He was again reappointed to the office by 
President Van Buren for four years, dating from the 2nd of July, 
1840. He continued to fill this position with general satisfaction 
to the Government and the citizens of Philadelphia, until the 
inauguration of President Harrison in 1841, when he was retired 
by reason of the change in the Federal administration from the 
Democratic to the Whig party. During his incumbency of the 
postmastership of this City, he was detailed by Postmaster General 
Kendall to proceed to New York and take charge of the post office 
there, and examine into its condition ; which he did, remaming there 
some time, until Postmaster Coddington was appointed in place of 
Gouveneur, who was removed. For this service he received the 
approval and thanks of Postmaster General Kendall. 

In 1841, he was elected County Treasurer in the place of Plan 
Kenton, removed. On August 4th. 1846, he was appointed by Presi- 
dent Polk, Collector of Customs for this port, a position which he 
occupied until 1849, when the incoming of the Whig administration 
under President Taylor caused his removal. The latest position of 
political importance which he held was a seat in Select Council, to 
which he was elected in October, 1865. He served the full term of 
three years, and his retirement from political life was the recipient 
of flattering testimonials and regrets from men of all parties. 

On the 13th of April, 1832, he was appointed a Commissioner 
of Bankruptcy for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by Presi- 
dent Jackson, under the Act of Congress of the 29th of April, 



BIOGRAPHIES xxxv 

1802. He was also for some years solicitor for the Board of 
Health and County Commissioners, an inspector of the County 
Prison, president of the Skating Club and Humane Society for 
many years; president of the Hibemia Fire Engine Company, 
No. 1 ; and president of the Democratic Association for the State 
of Pennsylvania. For some time he was also a director of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, in which position he came promi- 
nently before the public as an antagonist of the majority in the 
management of that great corporation. 

Colonel Page also took an active and prominent part in military 
affairs. In September, 1814, he joined" the State Fencibles at 
Camp Bloomfield, Kennett Square. The organization had been 
formed in May, 1813, and in September of the same year had ten- 
dered its services to Governor Snyder, as a part of the quota from 
this State in the pending war with Great Britain. He continued 
with the Company until it was mustered out of service on Jan- 
uary 3rd, 1815. He was elected Captain of the Company on the 
8th of June, 1819. and successively elected to that position, and 
held the command until the 25th of April, 1861, a period of forty- 
two years. 

On the 2ud of July, 1823. he was commissioned Major of a Volun- 
teer Regiment, attached to the 128th of the line, 1st Brigade, 1st 
Division, P. ]M. On the 3rd of August, 1828, he was commissioned 
as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2d Regiment, P. V. I., 128th of the 
line, P. M., and also Colonel of the 1st Regiment, Citizen Volun- 
teers, 108th of the line. On the 3rd of August, 1835, he was commis- 
sioned as Colonel 2d Regiment V. I., 108th of the line. On the 9th 
of October, 1857, he was appointed aide to Governor Pollock, with 
the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He saw active service in the 
famous Buckshot War, and in the riots of 1844 in Kensington and 
Southwark. In the Kensington riots he was engaged in a conflict 
with the rioters in which several persons were killed and wounded. 

Colonel Page was also a very prominent member of the Masonic 
order. He was initiated into Rising Star Lodge, No. 126, on the 
25th of December, 1822 ; elected Junior Warden December 23rd, 
1823 ; Senior Warden, March 23rd, 1824 ; and Worshipful ]\Iaster, 
November 23rd, 1824. He was subsequently re-elected its W. M. four 
times in succession, until in 1826 he was exalted to the Supreme 
Degree of Royal Arch Masonry, in Jerusalem H. R. A. C. In 



XXXvi ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

1843, he was elected Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge 
of Pennsylvania, and at the next annual election he was elected 
R. W. D. G. M, In 1846, he was chosen R. W. Grand Master, in 
which office he served for two years. He was for many years the 
Chairman of the Committee on Appeals for the Grand Lodge; 
Chairman of the Building Committee of the old Masonic Temple 
on Chestnut Street, and also served as Chairman of the Trustees 
of the building Fund of the new Temple on Broad Street. 

Throughout his long and active career, Colonel Page enjoyed 
the highest reputation for integrity and fidelity to every interest 
entrusted to his care. His political career especially was an honor- 
able one, and he could, as he has himself said, ''unfold the book 
of his political life without a regret, and leave it for the world to 
scan." 



Captain Theodore Hesser. 

Theodore Hesser was born on the 16th of July, 1829, and was 
mustered into the United States service as captain of the Second 
Company State Fencibles. which was formed out of the first, on the 
25th of April, 1861. He left the city with his company and part 
of Colonel Lewis' command, on May 14th, and was mustered out 
on the 6th of August, 1861. 

He re-entered the service in the 72d Reg. Pa. Vol. and was at the 
battles of Munson's Hill, Ball's Bluffs, Berryville, Fair Oaks, Sav- 
age Station, Glendale Farm, "White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill, 
Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, 
Virginia ; and Gettysburg. At the age of 17, he was mustered into 
the United States Service for the Mexican War in a Virginia reg- 
iment, under the command of Colonel Hamtrank, and served till 
honorably discharged. He was a true soldier and a brave man, and 
fell as a soldier should fall. His death occurred on November 27th, 
1863. He fell at the head of his Command at Mine Run, Virginia. 
His body was long after disinterred, brought to the City and 
buried in Monument Cemeterv. 



Captain John Miller. 

John Miller was born in the Northern Liberties of the City 
of Philadelphia, August 31st, 1812. He held several public po- 



BIOGKAPHIES 



XXXVll 



sitions; was principal clerk in the Philadelphia post ofifice, clerk 
to the Commissioners of the Northern Liberties, director of the 
public schools for that district, and subsequently one of the control- 
lers of the public schools for the City of Philadelphia, and for a 
time was president of the board. He was postmaster of Philadel- 
phia under the administration of President Pierce. Presidential 
Elector in 1851, and member and president of Common Council in 
1857. 

April 21st, 1857, he was unanimously elected first lieutenant of 
tlie State Fencibles and subsequently became its captain in the 
three months' service in the War of the Rebellion. 



Major John W. Ryan, 

John W. Ryan began to maintain himself and others in Phila- 
delphia, as a newsboy in 1850, being then scarcely eight years 
old; seven years later he apprenticed himself to the late George 
Staples, a gold spectacle manufacturer, and before his time was 
out the Rebellion began. 

He enlisted at once, joining Company 1, 17th Penna. Volunteers, 
the day after Fort Sumter was fired on. Sworn in, April 25th, 
1861, as private. Mustered out, August 2nd, 1861. Re-enlisted 
Company C, 23d Penna. Volunteers, September 4th, 1861. Trans- 
ferred to Company H, 61st Penna. Volimteers, February, 1862; 
appointed Sergeant, March, 1862 ; First Sergeant, December, 1862 ; 
Second Lieutenant, November 22nd. 1863 ; mustered out, September 
13th, 1864. Organized 215th Penna. Volunteers (9th Union 
League), and mustered as Captain, Company A, April 12th, 1865; 
mustered out, July 31st, 1865. Elected Captain, Company A, 
Philadelphia Fire Zouaves, October 14th, 1867 ; regiment disbanded, 
March, 1871. Elected Captin State Fencibles, March, 1871, and 
re-elected in 1876. Increased the organization from one company 
to a battalion of four companies, and elected Major, August 22nd, 
1878. In his service in the National Guard of Pennsylvania, he 
received the unanimous vote of his command for every position 
he had the honor to fill. 

He honestly, faithfully, and diligently discharged his duties as 
a citizen to his Country and his State ; as a soldier, for both, and as 
a man was ever ready to do all in his power to promote the interests 
of his city. He died at Philadelphia October 22nd, 1886. 



XXXviii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

Major W. Wes. Chew. 

Maj. W. Wes. Chew was born April 16th, 1842, in the old district 
of Southwark. He was a son of Wesley Chew of the old Chew 
family of Revolutionary fame. His father was an active member 
of the Philadelphia Grays, one of the crack organizations of that 
time. Major Chew attended and graduated from the Mt. Vernon 
Grammar School, and started his business life with the brokerage 
firm of McHenry & Brill. It was while he was so employed that 
he became acquainted and later became a very close friend of Col. 
James Page, who at that time commanded the State Fencibles. 
Page was a great skater and took Chew under his tuition. His re- 
lations with the Colonel were always very pleasant. Later he se- 
cured employment on the staff of the old Saturday Evening Post 
and served with them until 1863. During '63 Chew enlisted in 
the 107th Penna. Vol., and served until the close of the war. He 
enlisted in the State Fencibles under Maj. John W. Ryan and 
served in the ranks until 1877, when he was elected second lieu- 
tenant and served as such until the formation of the battalion in 
1878 when he was elected as captain of Company B. with which 
company he served until the death of Major Ryan whom he suc- 
ceeded in command of the battalion. 

At the expiration of his commission. 1891, although urged by 
every officer and non-commissioned officer of the Command to 
accept re-election, he refused on account of ill health. Major Chew 
has been connected with the Chew Printing House since 1873. 



Major William A. Witherup. 

William A. Witherup was born in Troy, Ohio, and educated in 
the public schools of Cincinnati, leaving the high school at the age 
of seventeen to enter the army during the Rebellion. Here he 
showed that gallantry and fearlessness of danger, which is a part of 
his nature, so often combined with generosity and dignity of mind 
which disdains to take advantage of a vanquished enemy. He was 
taken prisoner at the battle of Stone's River, Tennessee, and twice 
wounded at the battle of Mission Ridge. He has filled many posi- 
tions of trust, which duties he discharged with that unvarying 
loyalty and fidelity which characterized his conduct as a soldier 
fighting for his country. 



BIOGRAPHIKS xxxix 

Major Withenip was initiated in Apollo Lodge, No. 296, I. 0. (). 
F., April Uth. 1866, and in Apollo Encampment, No. 38, June 12th, 
1867. Was admitted to the Grand Lodge, November 21.st, 1871, and 
to the Grand Encampment, May 18th, 1874. Served in Grand En- 
campment on several important committees and as Grand Inside 
Sentinel, was installed Grand Junior Warden in .Alay, 1883, and 
Grand Patriarch in May, 1886; was installed Grand Warden in 
May, 1890, and Grand Master in May, 1892. He was for several 
years a representative to the Odd Fellows' Home, during that 
time he was also one of the Board of IManagers. 

He is a member of Apollo Lodge, No. 386, F. & A. :\r., and Har- 
mony Chapter, No. 52, R. A. M., and of Mary Commanden^ No 
36, K. of T. 

On November 24th, 1891. he was elected as :\ra.ior to succeed 
]\Iajor Chew who had resigned. Major Withenip had been an active 
mendier of the Fencibles for some time, and served for a number 
of years as Treasurer. At the date of his election as IMajor. he 
was captain of Company A. He served in the capacity of IMajor 
imtil June 14th, 1893. when he resigned on account of business, 
and was succeeded in command by Major Brazer. On the date of 
his retirement from the Fencibles, as a mark of respect the bat- 
talion elected him to honorary membership. 

Quiet and unassuming in manner, but governed by force of char- 
acter and decided convictions, his popularity is not confined to 
these limits, but had widened and deepened everywhere, sustaining 
his well-earned reputation as a public-spirited, liberal hearted gen- 
tleman. 



Major Thurber T. Brazer. 

Thurber Thurston Brazer was born in Philadelphia. June 1st, 
I860, of an old Philadelphia family. His father, the late George 
W. Brazer, was a son of Alderman Christopher Brazer, a "city 
father" of ante-consolidation days. 

Educated in the public schools the young man. in his sixteenth 
year, was appointed a clerk in the U. S. Pension Office. In 1879, 
severing his connection with the Pension Office he engaged in the 
cotton business, in which he has continued, and is now a prominent 
cotton merchant of the city. 



XL ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

The fame and military^ splendor of the State Feneibles, early 
excited the ardor of young Brazer. Immediately upon his retire- 
ment from his duties in the Pension Office, he enlisted in Company 
D, June 26th, 1879. His mercantile and his military careers com- 
mencing simultaneously. 

March 11th, 1882, he received his first promotion, being made cor- 
poral. With the chevron once on his arm his advancement was 
rapid : sergeant, July 27th, 1882 ; 2nd lieutenant, August 2nd, 
1883; 1st lieutenant, September 16th, 1885; captain, June 7th, 
1886 ; re-elected captain, June 15th, 1891, he served two years of 
this commission when called to the highest office in the gift of the 
organization. Chosen Major of the State Feneibles Battalion, June 
14th, 1893, and being imbued with the Feneibles esprit de corps, 
his ambition was to maintain the dignity and honor so long enjoyed 
by the organization under his predecessors since its birth May 
26th, 1813. 

Receiving his early military training under the late Maj. John 
W. Ryan, who was his close personal friend and who instilled in him 
that Fencible loyalty which has so markedly characterized the or- 
ganization. Major Brazer, at the outbreak of the Spanish- American 
"War chose for his Battalion an assignment to the 6th Regiment 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry rather than remain out of service. 
Returning the colors to the Armory to the keeping of the veterans, 
the Battalion entered the United States Service under the command 
of Major Brazer as 1st Battalion, 6th Regiment Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteer Infantry, assigned to the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Division, 2nd 
Army Corps. 

Major Brazer 's tireless efforts to safeguard the identity and 
chartered rights of the Feneibles have evoked the heartiest appro- 
bation and support of both rank and file. He has endeared himself 
to his men both in service and in civil life, and upon the reinstate- 
ment of the volunteer regiments into the National Guard, he was 
unanimously re-elected Major of the State Feneibles Battalion. 

The eighty-seventh Anniversary of the Battalion was commemo- 
rated by a testimonial banquet to Major Brazer at which he was the 
recipient of a massive silver loving cup, as an evidence of esteem 
and appreciation of the rank and file. 

In politics Major Brazer has been a staunch and manful Repub- 
lican, always taking an active part in the battles of his party. 



BIOGRAPHIES XLI 

His twenty-one year.s of service in the National Guard was 
a period of faithful performance of duty, and nnreniitting devotion 
to its advancement. 

All Fencibles are justly proud of Major Brazer's administration. 
His steadfast and zealous efforts in promoting the Fencibles' in- 
terests have made his name the embodiment of the Fencibles' rsprit 
cle corps, to which all Fencibles rally and attach themselves. 

At the ninety-seventh Anniversary, the Battalion presented him 
with a beautiful gold watch, and at Atlanta, Georgia, in October, 
1911, a beautiful gold medal. 



Hon. William Darrah Kelley. 
picturesque american congressman. 

No man in American public life who began and ended his polit- 
ical career as a member of Congress was more widley known than 
"Pig Iron" Kelley, who also fell heir through his long service to 
the title "Father of the House." He received his first nickname 
through his staunch tariff views, and especially in his protection of 
the "pig iron" industry of Pennsylvania. 

William Darrah Kelley was born in Philadelphia on April 12th. 
1814, and at the time of his death, January 9th, 1890, he was the 
senior member of the House of Representatives at Washington. 
His success in life must be attributed to his own efforts, for his 
father died when he was a mere child. His first employment was 
as a reader in a printing office in his native city, after which he 
spent seven years as an apprentice in a jewelry house, from which 
he accepted a position in Boston. 

Kelley 's stay in that city had a marked effect upon the broader 
career which ability, industrv% and perseverance were to open to 
him. It was his good fortune to come into contact with men of 
high attainments, whose influence and example fired his ambition 
and directed it into profitable preparatory channels. A speech in 
Faneuil Hall, Boston, offered an opportunity for a dramatic debut. 
The postmaster of Boston, Nathaniel Green, heard it and gave the 
young orator a clerkship, and George Bancroft, afterwards the 
historian, gave him the use of his library, as well as a position under 
the Government, leaving him leisure to prejiare for Harvard. 

Young Kelley returned to Philadelphia and Col. James Page 
suggested that he study law. "Why don't I go to Congress?" 



XLii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 

said Kelley, the one thing seeming to him as practicable as the 
other. "Maybe you will some day," said Colonel Page, "but first 
come and read law with me." He did so and was admitted to the 
bar in 1841. His force as a public speaker attracted attention at 
once. From Prosecuting Attorney he was nominated to the bench 
by Governor Shunk, one month before he was thirty-three years of 
age. 

Although in early life he was a Democrat, he changed his politi- 
cal views and in August, 1856, he was nominated in the Fourth 
Congressional District of Pennsylvania. This district being so 
strongly Democratic, he was defeated, but he succeeded in being 
elected in the same district in 1860, and he held the office contin- 
uously from that year until his death, January 9th, 1890, or for 
thirty years. 

In the discussion of the ]\Iorrill tariff bill of 1861, he strongly 
advocated protection, and one of his most memorable speeches on 
the tariff was that against the bill of Mr. Fernando Wood, chair- 
man of the Ways and Means Committee, in which occurred his 
strong defense of the pig iron industry, which gave to him his 
famous nickname, and which he carried through life. This speech 
has been regarded by many as the greatest speech on the tariff ques- 
tion ever delivered in the American Congress. 

It was "Pig Iron" Kelley 's boast that he never held an office 
which he had not resigned. He had more than once declined to 
be a candidate for re-election to Congress, finally yielding his 
personal desire to the wish of his constituents. In 1870 he wanted 
to retire, but consented to re-election with the proviso that he was 
not to be expected to act as an office-broker or a place-hunter. 
He had often advised an office-seeking constituent to devote his 
time and ability to a more certain employment. 

One of the secrets of Congressman Kelley 's strength on the 
tariff question was that he had explored it to the bottom and 
through all its ramifications. Even in the last few years before his 
death he was always prepared to answer a question or make a 
three hours' speech on the subject, always mastering his ample re- 
sources, never disconcerted, ever instructive and forceful. 

For a man of experience in public life, Congressman Kelley 
was one of the least skillful of politicians; indeed, he lacked about 
everything which makes the politician. He was plain spoken to 
bluntness, sometimes brusque in manner, never hesitating to ex- 



BIOGRAPHIES 



XLIU 



press an opinion without considering how it might be received. 
He would make rattling speeches on the stump, but he didn't take 
kindly to "mixing," which required the paying of petty personal 
compliments without stint. Judge Kelley was always busy, and, 
better than most men, understood how to economize time. Up to 
a year or so before his death, he conducted an immense correspon- 
dence, to which he was able to attend prompt!}^ with the aid of an 
accomplished short-hand secretary. The secretary wrote a plain 
hand but the Judge could not boast much of his own penmanship. 
One of his constituents, who received a letter penned by the secre- 
tary and signed by the Judge, said: "Judge Kelley writes first-rate 
until he has said 'yours truly,' and then he writes his name as 
though he was tired. ' ' The ' ' William D. ' ' was open to recognition, 
but the "Kelley" might have been anything. 

During his long service in Congress he had filled the member- 
ship of all the important committees, and was chairman of l)()th 
the Committees on Ways and Means and on the Centennial Cele- 
bration in 1876. In addition to his many political speeches, a 
number of addresses on general topics have been published from his 
pen. Mr. Kelley was more than a specialist on the tariff. He was 
a well-rounded statesman. 

There is a double significance in the title of "Pig Iron" as ap- 
plied to Congressman Kelley, aside from the reason already stated, 
because of his inflexible pursuit of a policy of protection for Penn- 
sylvania iron industrj^ — he was as tough and unbending in his 
advocacy of all doctrines in which he was interested as the industry 
he was attempting to protect. 



Officers and Members of the Infantry Bat- 
talion, State Fencibles 
1913 



Major Thurber T. Brazer Enlisted in Co. D, June 26, 1879; ap- 
pointed Corporal, March 11, 1882; 
Sergeant, July 27, 1882; commissioned 
2d Lieut., August 2, 1883; 1st Lieut., 
September 16, 1885; Captain, June 7, 
1886; Major, June 14, 1893; served 
with command as Major in Spanish- 
American War. 

Captain Thomas S. Lanard Enlisted in Co. D., June 13, 1905; com- 
missioned 1st Lieut., June 20, 1905; 
commissioned Captain and Adjutant, 
November 7, 1906. 

Captain Edward E. Packer Enlisted in Co. A, October 4, 1853 ; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, 1857; served in 
Civil War, 1861-65; commissioned 2d 
Lieut., March, 1871; 1st Lieut., Jan- 
uary, 1875; Captain Co. A, July, 
1878; commissioned Captain Co. C, 
June, 1883; Battalion Quartermaster, 
April, 1895; Captain Co. I, 20th Reg., 
1898 (a Reserve Regiment for Spanish- 
American War) ; Captain and Battal- 
ion Quartermaster, October 20, 1898. 

Captain Alfred H. Burton Enlisted in Co. C, December 24, 1888; 

appointed Corporal, February 20, 
1890; Sergeant, January 15, 1891; 
Battalion Commissary Sergeant, Au- 
. gust 15, 1897 ; commissioned 2d Lieut. 
Co. I, 20th Reg., N. G. P., August 16, 
1898 (a Reserve Regiment for Spanish- 
American War); 1st Lieut., May 17, 
1899 ; Captain and Commissary on 
Staff, October 1, 1898. 

Captain Frank N. Greene Commissioned Captain and Surgeon, Feb- 
ruary 27, 1907. 

XLV 



XLvi ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 

Captain George S. Davis Enlisted in Co. B, November 13, 1903 ; 

appointed Corporal, October 28,1904; 
commissioned 2nd Lieut., June 21, 
1907; Ist Lieut., February 28, 1908; 
Captain and Engineer on Staff, Au- 
gust 15, 1910. 

Captain Edward L. Lanneau Enlisted in Co. B, March 10, 1889 ; 

appointed Corporal, June 16, 1891 ; 
Sergeant, October 6, 1892 ; commis- 
sioned 1st Lieut., March 3, 1899; Cap- 
tain, February 28, 1908; commission- 
ed Captain and Assistant Quartermas- 
ter on Staff, October 1, 1911. 

Capt, H. a. F. Hoyt Captain and Chaplain, November 18, 

1886; served as Private in Company 
H, 57th Mass. Vols, in Civil War 
from January 5, 1864 to April 8, 
1865; served in Spanish- American 
War as Chaplain 6th Penna. Vols, 
from May 13, 1898 to October 17, 
1898; at present time Chaplain-Gen- 
eral of the Military Order of Foreign 
Wars, Chaplain-in-Chief of the Naval 
and Military Order of the Spanish- 
American War, and Chaplain in the 
National Guard of Penna., in which 
he has held Commission for twenty- 
six years. 

Capt. William E. Scott Enlisted in State Fencibles Co. B, July 

30, 1884; appointed Corporal, June 

22, 1886; appointed Sergeant, May 5, 
1889 ; Commissioned 1st Lieut., Sept. 

23, 1892; commissioned Captain, Dec. 
23, 1892. 

Capt. William E. Sharps Commissioned Captain and Paymaster 

December 1, 1899; Captain and Ad- 
jutant, January 4, 1904; Captain 
and Paymaster, November 7, 1907. 

Capt. Fred. G. Zeh Enlisted in State Fencibles, Co. A, June 

15, 1888; appointed Corporal, June 24, 
1890; appointed Sergeant, June 15, 
1891 ; commissioned 2nd Lieut., July 
7, 1892; commissioned 1st Lieut., 
June 18, 1895; commissioned Captain, 
March 6, 1900; commissioned 1st 
Lieut., Co. K, 6th Eegiment, P. V. I., 
May 13, 1898; mustered out, Oct. 17, 
1898. 



1913 OFFICERS AND MEMBERS x, vij 

Captain John D. Garcia Enlisted in Co. A, April 19, 1894; ap- 
pointed Corporal, May 11, 1897; 
served with Co. A, State Fenciblcs, as 
Co. K, 6th Reg. Infty., in Spanish- 
American War; M. O. with company 
as Corporal, October 17, 1898; re-en- 
listed Co. A, appointed Q. M. Sergt., 
1900; commissioned 2nd Lieut., April 
25, 1904; Captain Co. A, July 16, 
1906; re-commissioned Captain, July 
1, 1911. 

Captain Edwin J. Prittie Enlisted in Co. D, January 16, 1903; 

appointed Corporal, March 15, 1903; 
Sergeant, September 21, 1903; dis- 
charged business interference. May 23, 
1905; enlisted in Co. C, October 7, 
1906; commissioned 2nd Lieut., Nov- 
ember 24, 1906; 1st Lieut., September 
9, 1907; Captain, August 6, 1908. 

Captain Joseph L. Dunn Enlisted in Co. D, April 5, 1894 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, June 14, 1897 ; .Ser- 
geant, May 13, 1898; served with com- 
pany in Spanish-American War; M. O. 
with company, October 17, 1898; re- 
enlisted December 16, 1898; dis- 
charged May 21, 1900, business inter- 
ference; enlisted Co. D, June 13, 
1905; commissioned 2nd Lieut., June 
20, 1905; 1st Lieut., November 12, 
1906; Captain Co. D, May 6, 1907; 
re-elected. May 13, 1912. 

Captain H. Stanley Ellis Enlisted in Co. D, October 17, 1905 ; ap- 
pointed Corpora], May 6, 1907; Ser- 
geant, July 31, 1907; Battalion Ser- 
geant-Major, February 18, 1908, to 
June 9, 1909 ; commissioned 2nd 
Lieut., Co. D, June 15, 1909 ; trans- 
ferred to Co. B, January 4, 1912, in 
command of company; commissioned 
Captain Co. B, March 1, 1912. 

Lieut. Edgar Engle Enlisted in Co. A, October 2, 1905; ap- 

I)ointed Corporal, March 3, 1906; com- 
missioned 2nd Lieut., July 17, 1906; 
1st Lieut., July 16, 1911. 

Lieut. Henry L. Woodland Enlisted in Co. C, September 4, 1908; 

commissioned 2nd Lieut., Co. C, De- 
cember 3, 1908. 



XLviii ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1913 

Lieut. Montraville H. Smith, Jr. . Enlisted in Co. D, February 12, 1903; 

appointed Sergeant, May 13, 1905 ; 
discharged at own request, August 3, 
1905; enlisted in Co. C, May 16, 
1907 ; appointed Corporal, April 23, 
1908; appointed Sergeant, May 13, 
1908; commissioned 2nd Lieut., July 

16, 1908; commissioned Isli Lieut., 
December 3, 1908. 

Lieut. James D. Patterson Enlisted in Co. D, April 17, 1908; ap- 
pointed Corporal, December 14, 1908; 
appointed Sergeant, June 28, 1909 ; 
discharged at his own request, April 

17, 1911; re-enlisted in Co. D, May 17, 
1911; commissioned 1st Lieut., March 
25, 1912. 

Lieut. Robert J. Dunn Enlisted in Co. D, April 13, 1908 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, June 21, 1909; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, November 22, 1909; 
commissioned 2nd LSeut., April 22, 
1912. 

Lieut. George K. Hofp Enlisted in Co. B, February 12, 1912; 

commissioned 1st Lieut., March 1, 
1912. 

Lieut. Paul D. Garcia Enlisted in Co. A, June 16, 1896 ; com- 
missioned 2nd Lieut., Co. A, January 
21, 1913. 

Sergt. Henry T. Porter Enlisted in Co. D, June 13, 1905; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, June 20, 1905 ; ap- 
pointed Battalion Sergeant-Major, 
June 9, 1909. 

Sergt. William H. Hinkle Enlisted in Co. A, October 10, 1893 ; 

appointed Corporal, July 2, 1895; 
Sergeant, May 13, 1898 ; served with 
Co. K, 6th Reg., in Spanish-American 
War: M. O. October 17, 1898; ap- 
pointed Sergeant Co. A, December 1, 
1899; 1st Sergt., February 1, 1900; 
appointed Battalion Quarteniiaster 
Sergt., April 25, 1907. 

Sergt. Charles H. Mebkle Enlisted in Co. D, January 12, 1903 ; 

appointed Corporal, March 4, 1903 ; 
Sergeant, September 1, 1903; dis- 
charged, May 8, 1905, business inter- 
ference; enlisted in Co. C, October 12, 
1906 ; appointed Sergeant, October 19, 
1906; appointed Battalion Conmiissary 
Sergeant, December 15, 1907. 



1913 OFFICERS AND MEMBERS X, jx 

Sergt. Daniei. W. Lanard, Jr Appointed Chief Musician, June 22, 

1907. 

Sergt. Samuel G. Hunter Enlistecl in Co. C, July o, 1907; ap- 
pointed Company Quartermaster, June 
17, 1909; ai)puintod Color Serjrt., May 
16, 1912. 

Sergt. F. Wilson Glass Enlisted in Co. D, June 26, 1906; ap- 

I)ointed Hospital Sergt., January 24, 
1907. 

Adshead, Howard Enlistetl in Company D, March 14, 1912. 

Albright, Harry Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909. 

Baldwin, R. J Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 16, 1912. 

Bartelli, Howard E Enlisted in Co. C, July 20, 1911. 

Beans, Francis D., Enlisted in Co. A, Feb. 6, 1906. 

Belfi, Edw. J Enlisted in Co. C, March 2.3, 1911; ap- 
pointed Corporal July 11, 1912. 

Bender, Charles W Enlisted in Company D, March 25, 1912. 

BiLLMAN, Mont Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

Blackburn, Robt. D Enlisted in Co. C, June 6, 1912. 

Bleckman, Myer, Enlisted in Co. C, June 1, 1911. 

Boguchi, Kasmar Enlisted as Musician, April 6, 1908. 

Borty, Ell wood H Enlisted in (^o. C, July 20, 1911. 

Boyd, William Enlisted as Musician, June 6, 1910. 

Breeman, Leonard Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 16, 1912. 

Brooks, Wm ■ Enlisted in Co. B, March 22, 1912. 

Burbridge, A. F Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, May 17, 1909. 

Castiglione, Robert Enlisted in Co. B, Nov. 18, 1911. 

Charles, Albert F Enlisted in Co. A, January 14, 1913. 

Cheenry, Chas. R Enlisted in Co. A, May 14, 1912. 

Cohen, Nathan M Enlisted in Co. C, July 21, 1910. 

Coleman, Chas. C Enlisted in Co. A, March 3, 1906; ap- 
pointed Corporal, July 12, 1910; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, Feb. 11, 1910. 

Clayton, Judson R Enlisted in Co. D, Sept. 27, 1909; dis- 
charged June 19, 1911; re-enlisted in 
Co. D, April 1, 1912. 

Clower, Leonard Enlisted in Co. A, May 17, 1911. 

Clough, Willard Enlisted as Musician, May 17, 1909 ; 

appointed Corporal, May 24, 1909. 

Compinkwait, Wm Enlisted in Co. B, Feb. 16, 1911; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, April 1, 1912. 

Creel y, W. H Enlisted in Co. A, August 23, 1910. 

Ceowther, Benj. G Enlisted in Co. C, Aug. 26, 1909 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, Jan. 25, 1910; ap- 
pointed Q. M. Sergt., Oct, 20, 1910; 
appointed Corporal, Nov. 7, 1912. 
CUSHING, Robert A Enlisted in Co. D, March 25, 1912. 



ONE HUNDEED YEAKS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 



DiEMAND, Charles Enlisted as Musician, April 28, 1910. 

Douglas, G. Stewart Enlisted in Co. D, Jan. 20, 1913. 

Duckworth, Wm. H Enlisted in Co. A, April 30, 1912. 

DuNGAN, Harry Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 16, 1912; ap- 
pointed Q. M. Sergt., Sept. 16, 1912. 

Duncan, Stewart Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 16, 1912. 

DuRGEs, John Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

Eberhardt, Joseph Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

EiNSELER, Walter Enlisted in Co. C, June 3, 1909. 

English, C. E Enlisted in Co. B, April 2, 1911. 

Enters, Fred'k A Enlisted in Co. C, Dec. 7, 1911. 

Enters, Max H., Jr Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 1, 1912. 

EwiNG, Jacob H Enlisted in Co. C, Sept. 16, 1909. 

Erwin, Edw. F Enlisted in Co. C, Marcli 21, 1912. 

Eravin, Hugh Enlisted in Co. C, March 21, 1912. 

Erwin, William Enlisted in Co. C, Jan. 2, 1913. 

Farnsworth, Wm. B Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 3, 1908. 

Fee, James I. A Enlisted in Co. B, Feb. 9, 1912, 

Feuerstein, William Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

Flemming, James A Enlisted in Co. D, April 1, 1912. 

Fincham, Grover L Enlisted in Co. C, June 4, 1908; appoint- 
ed Corporal, Sept. 10, 1908; appointed 
Sergeant, Dec. 10, 1908. 

FiZELL, Thomas Enlisted as Musician, April 6, 1908. 

Fortin, Charles Eidisted in Co. D, March 25, 1912. 

FORTIN, Frederick ^ Enlisted in Co. D, March 6, 1911. 

Fowler, Clifford, Enlisted in Co. D, Nov. 4, 1912. 

Frease, Walter Enlisted as Musician, May 20, 1912. 

Garcia Agustace Enlisted in Co. A, July 2, 1904. 

Garton, Richard Enlisted in Co. A, Feb. 20, 1912. 

Gaskill, F. p., Jr Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 8, 1912. 

Godett, Nat E Enlisted in Co. A, April 30, 1912. 

Gault, James J Enlisted in Co. A, Jan. 14, 1913. 

Grier, Louis H Enlisted in Co. B, March 13, 1908. 

Grossi, Levini Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909. 

Haddon, Wm Enlisted in Co. A, Sept. 1, 1909. 

Hartzell, D. Webster Enlisted in Co. A, Aug. 16, 1910; ap- 
pointed Corporal, March 4, 1912. 

Heins, Harry Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, May 17, 1909. 

Heraj.d, Julius A Enlisted in Co. D, March 14, 1912. 

Himelfarb, Harry Enlisted in Co. C, June 1, 1911. 

HoBSON, Warren Enlisted in Co. A, Jan. 14, 1913. 

Horn, Fred Enlisted in Co. A, Aug. 16, 1910. 

Horney, Wm. G Enlisted in Co. C, July 27, 1911. 

Hunter, Frank Enlisted in Co. A, Mar. 16, 1908. 

Hunsicker, Clayton Enlisted in Co. B, Nov. 8, 1912. 



1913 OFFICERS AND MEMBERS Li 

Ievin, ROBT. F Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 29, lid 1 ; ap- 
pointed Artificer Nov. 7, 1912. 

Jackson, Elmo Enlisted in Co. B, Nov. 10, 1911. 

Jamison, Benjamin Enlisted in Co. A, — transferred to Co. D, 

Feb. 6, 1911, from Co. A, as a Sergt. 

Jelniche, Beuno Enlisted as Musician, April 6, 1908. 

JUMPE, J. A Enlisted in Co. B, Nov. 1, 191 1. 

Keller, E. H Enlisted in Co. B, Jan. 10, 1912. 

KiDD, Earl W Enlisted in Co. C, March 28, 1912. 

KoEHLER, George L Enlisted as Musician, May 22, 1911. 

Kreable, Mark Enlisted as Musician, May 22, 1911. 

KucHER, Charles Enlisted as Musician, June 22, 1908. 

Kuhn, Robert Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 16, 1912. 

KuNZE, Fred W Enlisted in Co. B, Nov. 29, 1912. 

KuTZ, John Enlisted as Musician, May 20, 1912. 

Lanard, M. William Enlisted as Musician, April 6, 1908; ap- 
pointed Corporal, April 1.3, 1908. 

Lanning, Louis Enlisted in Co. B, Doc. 6, 1912. 

Lister, Herbert A Enlisted in Co. C, Sept. 2, 1909 ; appoint- 
ed Corporal, Nov. 18, 1909; appointed 
Sergeant, July 11, 1912. 

Lister, Ralph D Enlisted in Co. C, Oct. 13, 1910 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal May 9, 1912. 

Lipsett, Jas Enlisted in Co. A, July 27, 1909. 

LOCKWOOD, Edw. M , Enlisted in Co. C, May 16, 1912. 

Love, Alexander Enlisted in Co. B, Dec. 6, 1912. 

LuTZ, John Enlisted in Co. D, Oct. 10, 1905 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, July 29, 1907; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, June 21, 1909; ap- 
pointed First Sergeant, Nov. 22, 1911. 

Mahoney, W Enlisted in Co. A, Oct. 13, 1908. 

Marley, William Enlisted as Musician, April 6, 1908 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, April 13, 1908. 

Martin, Raymond S Enlisted in Co. C, June 22, 1911. 

Maussner, R Enlisted in Co. A, Oct. 13, 1908. 

Maurada, Fred Eiilisted in Co. B, Nov. 8, 1912. 

Mayers, Edw. E Enlisted in Co. B, April 14, 1911. 

MoE, Jno. G Enlisted in Co. C, Nov. 19, 1908 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal Sept. 1, 1909; ap- 
pointed Q. M. Sergt., Nov. 7, 1912. 

MoRAD, Harry Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

MuEPHY, Jr., Jas. B., Enlisted in Co. C, Jan. 20, 1910; ap- 
pointed Corporal, Dec. 7, 1911; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, July 11, 1912. 

Myers, Jr., Wm. L Enlisted in Co. C, Sept. 9, 1909. 

McAtee, Robt. R Enlisted in Co. C, May 16, 1907 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, April 16, 1908; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, May 14, 1908; ap- 
pointed 1st Sergt., July 1, 1909. 



Lii ONE HUNDRED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 

NoRATO, Chaeles Enlisted as Musician, June 30, 1910. 

Ottinger, Charles Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909. 

Ott, Norman EuUsted in Co. B, Jan. 5, 1912 ; appoint- 
ed Artificer, Dec. 6, 1912. 

Ott, E. Taroni Enlisted in Co. B, Dec. 20, 1912. 

Owens, Herbert Enlisted as Musician, May 17, 1909. 

Packer, Edw. W Enlisted in Co. B, July 7, 1911 ; appoint- 
ed Corporal, Mar. 8, 1912. 

Padley, Jr., R. L Enlisted in Co. C, June 13, 1910. 

Page, Alex. H Enlisted in Co. C, June 6, 1912. 

Parsons, Ralph Enlisted in Co. B, Oct. 2.5, 1912. 

Pennington, William Enlisted in Co. D, April 18, 1910. 

Pennington, Edward A Enlisted in Co. D, April 18, 1910. 

Prado, Philip Enlisted in Co. D, May 6, 1912. 

Pierciey, Frank Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 13, 1912. 

Preisendanz, E. W Enlisted in Co. A, Mar. 19, 1912. 

Preisendanz, Jno. Fred Enlisted in Co. A, March 7, 1911. 

Ragelman, Jas. a Enlisted in Co. A, Sept. 10, 1912. 

R.EiD, Jas Enlisted in Co. B, Sept. 6, 1912. 

Rhoades, Walter C Enlisted in Co. D, Sept. 13, 1909 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, Feb. 15, 1910. 

Rich, Ralph R Enlisted in Company D, April 1, 1912. 

Reddough, H Enlisted in Co. A, June 6, 1908 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, July 27, 1910. 

Rommell, Chas Enlisted in Co. B, Jan. 5, 1910. 

RULEY, G. A Enlisted in Co. A, May 14, 1912. 

Schany, Eugene M Enlisted in Co. C, April 4, 1912. 

SUDELL, Frank Enlisted in Co. A, March 2, 1909. 

Sellers, Sam 'l W Enlisted in Co. C, Jan. 2, 1913. 

SiCHEL, Lemanuel Enlisted as Musician, June 22, 1908 ; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, June 29, 1908. 

Smith, Arthur L Enlisted in Co. C, Nov. 14, 1912. 

Smith, Elmer Enlisted in Co. A, April 30, 1912. 

Smith, Elmer W Enlisted in Co. D, Nov. 4, 1912. 

Smith, Robt. H Enlisted in Co. C, Dec. 5, 1912. 

Smith, William W Enlisted in Co. D, July 31, 1911 ; ap- 
pointed Corporal, April 9, 1912. 

Stanley, Paul L Enlisted as Musician, May 10, 1909; ap- 
pointed Sergeant, May 17, 1909. 

Stewart, James G Enlisted in Co. D, April 1, 19] 2. 

St. Clair, Harold Enlisted as Musician, April 29, 1910. 

Stevenson, Chas. E Enlisted in Co. C, Nov. 14, 1912. 

Spink, Joseph R Enlisted in Co. D, March 1, 1909; ap- 
pointed Corporal, Feb. 15, 1910. 

Taylor, F. J Enlisted Co. B, Oct. 4, 1912. 

Taylor, Thomas F Enlisted in Co. D, March 4, 1912; ap- 
pointed Corporal, April 9, 1912. 



1913 OFFICERS AND MEMBERS ,^iii 

Thomas, Clarence L Enlisted in Co. B, Feb. I."), 1912; ap- 
pointed 1st Sergt., Mar. 14, 1912. 

ToMPKixs, Wm. W Enlisted in Co. C, Oct. 14, 1909; ap- 
pointed Q. M. Sergt, Feb. 17, 1910; 
appointed Sergeant, Oct. 20, 1910. 

TowiLL, Edav. T Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 6, 1913. 

Ulrich, Carl H Enlisted in Co. A, April 16, 1912. 

VoGT, Emvm A". Enlisted in Co. A, Sept. 13, 1910; ap- 
pointed Corporal, July 8, 1912. 

VoiGTSBURG, John H Enlisted in Co. D, June 27, 1910. 

Ward, Jos. D Enlisted in Co. C, Aug. 24, 1911. 

Weiss, Elmer, F Enlisted in Co. C, Feb. 6, 1913. 

West, Chas. Edw Enlisted in Co. A, April 4, 1912. 

Whjtaker, Charles Enlisted as Musician, May 17, 1909. 

WiLKiNS, Paul F Enlisted in Co. C, Nov. 14, 1912. 

Williams, Chas. J Enlisted in Co. A, June 14, 1910. 

Wilson, James S Enlisted in Co. A, Aug. 22, 1911. 

Yerger, Samuel J Enlisted in Co. A, Sept. 22, 1912. 

YiKE, Arthur E Enlisted in Co. D, Nov. 4, 1912. 

Zensen, Chas. H Enlisted in Co. C, Aug. 10, 1911. 



MEMBERS- 
Comniander : 

Major Emanuel Furth 
Senior Vice-Commander: 

Capt. Edw. McEwen 
Junior Vice-Commander: 

Lieut. Frank K. Wokley 
Adjutant: 

Capt. Samuel H. K. Shaffer 
Quartermaster : 

Capt. R. B. Pollock 
Commissary : 

Lieut Jacob Bieg 
Paymaster : 

Capt. John H. Benner 
Surgeon : 

Lieut. Dr. Emil Riehl 
Sergeant-Major : 

James B. Murphy 
Color Sergeant: 

William B. White 
Quartermaster Sergeant : 

Frank M. Hays 
Commissary Sergeant: 

John C. Esheb 



-OLD GUARD 
Hospital Steward: 

Geo. O. Wetherbee 
President : 

RoBT. J. Thompson 
Vice-President: 

John H. Jordan 
Secretary: 

Samuel H. K. Shaffer 
Financial Secretary : 

James B. Murphy 
Treasurer : 

John H. Benner 
Board of Directors: 

Robert P. Schellinger 

Walter J. Warner 

B. J. McNichol 

H. Le Grande Ensign 

Geo. O. Wetherbee 
Amonson, Fred. M. 
Appel, Col. Alex. M. 
Brazer, Major T. T. 
Burton, A. H. 
Burton, Wm. T. 
Burton, Jas. G. 
Birmingham, W. E. 



LIV 



ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE EENCIBLES 1913 



Bayard, C. A. 
Boyle, W. H. 
Beitler, L. E. 
Bacon, F. T. 
Babbier, G. H. 
Condon, M. G. 
Chandler, F. T. 
Childs, S. C. 
Conn, L. 
Clark, J. W. 
Cunningham, Thos. W. 
Cooke, St. Geo. H. 
Chew, Major W. Wes. 
Cattell, Chas. F. 
Cattell, Ed. James. 
Dorn, J. T. 
Duffy, Jas. J. 

DUCKETT, T. S. 

Denney, J. P. 
Elliott, J. 
Egolf, a. D. 
Edmonds, Geo. W. 
Fuller, A. J. 
Ferguson, T. 
Glentworth, C. E. 
Green, A. 
Geyer, H. F. 
Haines, J. 
Haight, F. 
Holden, N. 
Hutchins, J. W. 
Kneipp, J. P. 

KiRKBRIDE, B. H. 

Kendbick, M. 
Lupton, E. 
Johnston, G. W., Jr. 
Jackson, R. 
Lawrence, F. W. 
Lawson, W. 
McFassel, H. W., Sb. 
McKinley, J. 
McKaraher, C. 
Marron, C. H. 
Metzger, G. F. 
McPeak, J. A. 



MOSER, G. W. 
Maier, G. a., Jr. 
McNichol, J. P. 
MooBE, J. Hampton 
Morrison, H. T. 
Martin, Hon. J. Willis 
O 'Daniels, J. E. 
Peck, W. L., Jr. 
Packer, E. E. 
Passehl, C. R. 
Peale, C. C. 
Pierie, G. G. 
Penrose, Hon. Boise 
Pennypacker, Hon. S. W. 
Parker, G. L. 
Phifer, R. S., Jr. 
Plowden, R. E. 
Patterson, J. L. 
Rehsher, G. H. 
Ruth, G. H. 
Roberts, W. L. 
Rath, C. 

Rogers, Hon. J. P. 
Ridd, C. C. 
Smith, W. B. 
sutterley, w. w. 
Simpson, Geo. W. P. 
Starling, F. H. 
Smith, J. J. 
Smyth, D. J. 
Shields, Hon. W. S. P. 
Tool, S. H. 
Thompson, W. M. 
Weiss, H. 
Wiggins, .T. R. 
Witherup, Major W. A. 
Wert, W. A. 
Williams, Dr. H. E. 
Weaver, Hon. J. 
Weaver, P. L. 
Whelan, J. M. 
Wilson, W. W. 
White, H. G. 
Ziegler, Dr. W. H. 



INDEX 



Able, Capt. Charles A., 275 

Act of Assembly, 1852, 96 : 1864, 183 

Advanced Light Brigade, 8 

Adjutant General's report, 1874, 197 

Albany Burgess Corps, 180, 183, 289 ; 
visit of, 48, 50 ; medal presented to, 
51 

Albany Zouave Cadets, 245 

American Rifles of Del., 233, 235, 240, 
246 

American Telegraph Cable, 114 

Amoskeag Veterans, 234, 239, 246 

Ancient and Honorable Art. of Boston, 
315, 408, 411, 427 

Anderson, Mary, elected Hon. member, 
294 

Anderson's Hotel, 17, 20, 21 

Anniversary, 1822, 17; 1824, 18; 1831, 
37; 1832, 40; 1833, 45; 1834, 46; 
1841, 59 ; 1843, 61 ; 1850, 89 ; 1865, 
1866, 148; 1867, 149; 1868, 150; 
1869, 1870, 151; 1873, 185; 1874, 
202; 1876, 229; 1878, 272; 1879, 
279; 1880, 288; 1881, 291; 1882, 
293; 1883, 295; 1885, 301; 1886, 
304; 1887, 310; 1888, 311; 1889, 
313; 1890, 315; 1891, 317; 1892, 
319, 320; 1893, 324; 1894, 327; 
1895, 328; 1896, 329; 1897, 331; 
1898, 337 ; 1899, 345 ; 1900, 349 ; 
1901, 357 ; 1902, 368 ; 1905, 372 ; 
1906, 373; 1907, 374; 1908, 377; 
1909, 385 ; 1910, 394 ; 1911, 401 ; 
1912, 422 ; return from Camp Du 
Pont, 120 

Armory, alteration to, 332, 384 ; Build- 
ing Comm. for new, 298 ; change of 
79, 96, 115, 117, 162, 298; laying 
new floor, 373 ; return to, 299 



B 



Ball, masquerade, 300 ; subscription, 

1842, 60; 1843, 61; 1845, 78; 1846, 

81; 1848, 86; 1849, 1850, 88; 1851, 

90; 1854, 103; 1860, 124; 1872, 

173; 1888, 311; 1889, 312; 1890, 

315; 1891, 317; 1907, 374; 1908, 
384; 1910, 400; 1911, 401 



Baltimore, city of. 130 

Baltimore Light Infty., 21 

Baker Post, E. D., 167 

Barker. Lieut. Wra. H., 275 

Barclay, James J., 151, 295, 303 

Barras, Lieut. John, 35 

Baugh. Capt. Wm. R., death of, 300 ; 

letter from, 274 ; medal presented by, 

270 
Band, inorea.se of, 20, 29, 61, 115 ; or- 
ganization of first, 16 ; reorganization 

of, 368, 375 
Battalion, first drill, 276 ; first paradfe, 

276 ; formation of, 59, 275 ; refusal 

to form. 271 ; resolution on. 272, 273 ; 

sizing of. 278 
Bavington State Troops, 75 
Bayeaux. ("Captain, 77 
Beaver. Gov. Jas. A., 309 
Beckworth's Rifle Co., 5 
Benevolent Rifles, 5 
Berger, Charles, elected 2nd Lieut, 275 ; 

Secty., 298 ; Treasurer, 259, 272 
Bethany Presby. Church, 271 
Bi-Cent. landing of Penn, 294 
Biddle, Clement C. 3 ; at Walnut St. 

Prison, 14 ; death of, 107 ; elected 

Colonel, 8 
Biddle, George W., 330 
Black Hussars, 243 
Bond issue, 303 
Boston City Guards, 37, 45 
Boston Fusileers, 217, 218 ; letter from, 

274 ; State flag presented by, 313 ; 

visit of. 47, 203 
Boston Light Infty. (Tigers), 233, 234. 

246, 408, 411; history of, 235; visit 

of, 282 
Branch Guards, 302 
Brazer, Thurber T., elected Major, 325, 

345 ; floral corps mark presented to. 

377 ; loving cup presented to, 349 ; 

meaal presented to, ^07 ; report on 

Spanish-American War, 343. 
Bringhurst. Lieut. Robt, 275 
Bristow, Va., 340 
Browne. Col. Peter A., 46 
Bucks Co. Vol., 24 
Bull Run, Va., 340 
Burkes Station, Va., 340 
Burke, Col. J. F., 398, 399 



LV 



l^vi ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 



Bush Hill, 46 
Bush Zouaves, 302 



Camp Alger, 339 ; Andalusia. 304 ; 
Bloomfleld, 7, 8, 9 ; Brandywine, 9 ; 
Bristol, 313; Bridge Point, 3.4; Col- 
lege Park, 373 ; Cross Roads, 373 ; 
Devon, 318 ; Du Pont, 9 ; Elwin, 303 ; 
Pairmount Park, 289, 301 ; vxettys- 
burg, 299, 327 ; Island Heights, b^e, 
357 ; Lewistown, 293, 329 ; Mt. Gretna, 
315, 320 ; New Hope, 373 ; Neshaminy 
Falls, 331 ; Norristown, 312 ; Potts- 
town, 292 ; Phoenixville, 296 ; Sana- 
toga, 329 ; Sea Isle City, 377, 385, 
395 ; Torresdale, 325 ; Taylor, 143 

Cadwalader, Maj. Gen. Thomas, 59 

Cadwalader, Gen. George, parade in 
honor of, 87 ; death and funeral of, 
278 

Cadwalader Grays, 79, 87, 111 

Caledonia Blues, 29, 54 

Camac's Woods, 119 

Cannonge, Peter A., 10 

Carlisle, Fencibles at, 143 

Centennial celebration, New Year's pa- 
rade, 220 ; parade, 241 ; orders, 243 
opening of Expo., 228 ; close of Expo. 
255 

Centennial Legion, arrival of, 234, 241 
dress parade of, 249 ; Fencibles as 
signed to, 222, 227 ; flag of, 241 
organization of, 222 ; parade of, 241 
troops comprising, 233 

Champion Flag, contest for, 160, 161 
presentation of, 216 

Chew, W. Wes., elected 2nd Lieut, 272 
Captain, 275 ; Major, 308 ; resigna- 
tion of, 318 

City Blues of Paterson, 102 

City Fencibles, 111, 147 

Citizens' Corps, 20 

City Grays of Harrisburg, 184, 256, 277, 
279, 281 

City Guards, 74, 87 

City Phalanx, 29 

Court Martial, 155 

Coxe, Charles Sidney, 137 

Curbstone Committee's report, 198 

Citizens Volunteers, 29 

Cleveland, Grover, 301, 323 

Cleveland Police Comm., 209 

Clinch Rifles of Ga., 233, 234, 239, 246 

Coleman, Col. R. B., 184 

Columbus, Christopher, anniversary, 323 

Columbian Light Guard, 18 

Congress Hall, 34, 46 

Continental Guard, 111 



Company B of Camden, 162 

Centennial of State Fencibles, organiza- 
tion of committees, 431 ; plan for cel- 
ebration, 434 



Dauphin Volunteers, 67 

Dauphin Guards, 57 

Dechert, Gen. R. P., 326 

Detroit National Guard, 245 

Detroit Light Guard, 252 

Difficult Run, 338, 339 

Disston, Hamilton, 304 

Dorff, Richard, 33 

Drew's Theatre, 150 

Drouet, Robert, 379 

Drill, exhibition, 163, 164, 185, 202, 219, 
227, 231, 257, 272 ; exhibition, Bat- 
talion, 278; exhibition at N. Y., 314; 
exhibition. Walnut St. Theatre, 210, 
220 271. 276 ; State House yard, 
118 

Dubuque Grays of Iowa, 310 

Dunn's Rifle Co., 5 

Dutton, John A., elected 3rd Lieut., 50 ; 
2nd Lieut, 56; death of, 69; funeral, 
70 

Duquesne Grays, 78, 184, 292 



Easton Volunteers, 33 

Easton Washington Grays, 45, 48, 60 ; 

visit of, 37, 45, 59 
Edgely, Fencibles at, 208, 210 
Eighth Regt., 160 ; disbanded, 163 
Eighteenth Regt., P. V. Co. E and K, 

130 
Eighty-second Regt, P. V., 139 
Eldridge, Maj. G. P., 259 
Elks, parade of, 375 
Entre Nons Club, 183 
Epstein, Robert E., death — resolutions — 

funeral, 228 
Estey Guards of Vt., 247 
Eutaw flag, 241 
Evans' Hotel, 10 
Expenses, for trip to New York, 27 ; 

Atlanta, Ga., 28 
Exhibition, Permanent, vtsiif to, 269, 

279 ; letter from sect'y of, 269 



F 



Fair, military, 297, 303 

Falls Church, Va., 337 

Fayetteville Light Infty., N. C, 233, 

234, 235, 246 
Federal Hill, Md., 130, 135 
Fencible punch, 59, 97 



INDEX 



LVIl 



Fifth Maryland Regt., 191, 233, 235. 

240, 246, 410 
First City Troop, 28, 54, 67, 111, 147, 

183, 211, 243, 293, 331 
First Co. Gov. Foot Guard, Conn., 407, 

409, 412, 427 
First Light Infty., R. I., 233. 234. 237. 

246, 280. 427 
First newspaper notice, 3 
First Baptist Church. 301 
First Phila. Co. Troop, 54 
First Presby. Church. 273 
First Regiment. Ill, 165, 201. 245. 260. 

268. 293, 310 
First Regiment, P. V., 134 
Florence. Lieut. Thomas B., 56 
Flotilla Crew, 5 
Foquet's Garden. 3 
Forepaugh, Lieut. Wm. L., 18 
Founders Week, 382 
Fourth Regt.. 163. 165. 167 
Frankford Artillery, 87 
Freeman. Lieut. .Jos. B., 39 
Fritz. Lieut. Peter, elected 1st Lieut.. 

18 ; pitcher presented to, 36 ; resigna- 
tion of. 35 ; speech of. 37 
Funeral of, Ambruster, Peter, 29 ; Ayres, 

Captain. 87 ; Barclay, James .1.. 303 ; 

Biddle, Clement C, 107 ; Blake, Lieut.. 

85 ; Borell. .Joseph, 17 ; Boyd. Francis, 

15; Cadtwalader, Gen. Geo., 2.iS; 

Christler, Peter. 50 ; Clay, Hon. 

Henry, 95 ; Decatur, Com. Stephen, 

85 ; Dechert. Gen. Robt. P.. 326 ; 

Douglass, The Venerable, 97 ; Dutton, 

Lieut. John S., 70 ; Elliott. Com. 

Jesse D., 80 ; Epstein, Capt. Robt. E., 

228 ; Frick, W. C, 15 ; Geer, W. F.. 

254; Gingrich, Michael J.. 256; 

Gregory, Gen. E. M., 162 ; Harrison. 

Pres. Wm. H., 59 ; Hartranft, Maj. 

Gen.. 314 ; Hesser, Col. Theo.. 148 ; 

Howell, Lieut. Amos. 39 ; Kane, E. 

Kent, 110; Killingsworth, Edw. W., 

126 ; Magee, A.. 50 ; Meade, Gen. Geo. 

G., 170 ; Mercer, Geo. R.. 113 ; Mer- 
cer, Gen. Hugh, 5S ; Miller, John, 50 ; 

Morris. Capt. Geo. H., 18 ; Murphy. 

Col. John K.. 222 ; McClellan, Gen. 

Wm.. 319; McGlaughlin. James, 18; 

McLean, Maj. Geo. W., 323 ; O'Conner. 

Private. 300 ; Oves. Wm., 60 ; Page, 

Col. Jas., 213 ; Perez, Dr. Peter, 18 ; 

Piper. Henry. 47 ; Probasco. F.. 302 ; 

Pugh, J. B., 299 ; Rice, Sergt. Wm., 86 ; 

Richards, Thos. M.. 125 ; Ringgold. 

Major, 85 ; Rodgers, Lieut. Wm., 315 ; 

Ryan, Maj. John W., 306 ; Shoemaker, 

M., 15 ; Sleeth, David M., 29 ; Smith. 

Gen. P. F., Ill ; Stimmel, Jas. C, 



326 ; Stone, BenJ. Say. 199 ; Taylor. 
Pres. Zachary. 89 ; Thornley. Col. 
John, 213 ; Van Sclver, Comrade, 17 ; 
Warner, Charles, 17 ; Welsh, Sergt. 
Jas.. .300 ; White, Paymaster, U. S. A.. 
113; White. Reuben P.. 80; Wilson. 
Vice-Pres. Henry, 220 
Furth. Emanuel, medal presented to, 
407 ; speech of, 351 



Gate City Guard of Atlanta, 398, 408 , 

history of, 287 ; newspaper account of 

visit. 286 ; visit of, 283 
Garfield, Pres. James A.. 291 
Gatling Gun Co. of Camden, 310 
Geer, Sergt. W. F.. 254 
Georgetown Artillery. 5 
German Rifle Co.. 54 
German Washington Guards, 54 
Germantown Blues, 54, 75, 76, 88 
Gilchrist, Major, 249 
Gingrich. Michael J., 256 
Girard College Cadets, 167, 247. 306. 

331 
Glenn. William B., 259 
Goldey. Samuel, elected 3rd Lieut., 49 ; 

2nd Lieut.. 50 ; 1st Lieut., 56. 61 ; 

indorsement of. 60 
Governor's Guards, 21, 29, 30, 54 
Governor's Guards of New Brunswick, 

46 
Governor's Guards of N. Y., 19, 91 
Governor's Guards of Roxborough. 19 
Grant. Pres. U. S., at Centennial Expo.. 

229. 255 ; dedication of tomb of. 330 ; 
inauguration of. 178. 179; reception to. 

288 ; unveiling statue of. 345 
Gravenstine. Lieut. Wm.. 17 
Gray Invincibles, 244. 293, 325 
Green. John S., 228 
Greenland. Gen. W. W.. 328 
Gregg's farm, 9 
Grice, Samuel, 114 
Grier. Lieut. Jas. B., 140, 141 
Grubb's tavern, 16 



Hale. Capt. Nathan, 85 
Hagner, Lieut. Wm., 17 
Hagerstown, 144 
Hambleton. Lieut. W. H.. 275 
Hamlin. Wm. G.. 345 
Hancock. Gen. W. S.. 304 
Harrison Blues, 87 
Harrison, Pres. BenJ., 312 
Harrisburg Volunteers, 5 



Lviii O^E HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 19:3 



Hartranft, Gov. J. F., 243 ; death of, 

314 ; dedication of monument, 317 ; 

inauguration of, 174, 176 ; in riots, 

264 ; visit of, 195 
Hayes, Pres. Rutherford B., 260 
Heath Zouaves of Pittsburgh, 161 
Henry, Hon. Alex., 121 
Heppard's Hotel, 24 
Hesser, A. P., death of, 139 ; elected 

Lieut., 88, 102 ; resignation of, 107 
Hesser, Theodore, appointed Lieut. Col., 

137 ; death of, 139 ; elected Captain, 

130 ; funeral of, 148 ; resolutions on 

death, 145, 146 
Hibernia Greens, 29, 54 
Hoffman, J. E., 154 
Hofflefinger, Charles, 301 
Howell, Lieut. Amos, 17, 18 
Hoyt, Gov. Henry M., 277, 278 
Hoyt, Chaplain H. A. F., reception by, 

342 ; sermon of, 328 



Incorporation of State Fencibles, 224 
Incarnation, Church of, 331, 345 
Independent Blues, 2, 15 
Independent Guards, 87 
Independent Grays, 111, 147 
Independent Volunteers, 29 
Independent Bat. of Trenton, 24 
Independence Day, 1819, 13 ; 1820, 15 ; 
1821, 15, 16; 1822, 1823, 17; 1824, 
1825, 18; 1826, 19; 1827, 22; 1828, 
25; 1829, 29; 1831, 37; 1833, 45; 
1834, 46 ; 1835, 47 ; 1836, 48 ; 1840, 
58; 1842, 60; 1844, 72; 1847, 85; 
1852, 95; 1853, 97; 1854, 100; 1858, 
113; 1859, 117; 1871, 160; 1872, 
167 ; 1873, 191 ; 1875, 219 ; 1893, 325 ; 
1894, 327; 1895, 1896, 329; 1897, 
331 
Indianapolis Light Infty., 302 
Ingersoll, Joseph R., 2 ; death of, 150 
Inspection, 1877, 270; 1878, 272; 1879, 
276 ; 1880, 290 ; 1888, 311 ; 1894, 
327 ; 1899, 345, 346 ; 1906, 373 ; 
1907, 374; 1908, 377; 1909, 385; 
1911, 401; 1912, 422; 1913, 435; 1st 
Battalion, 1878, 276 
Invitation to visit Atlanta, 399 
Irish Volunteers, 88 

Itinerancy, for New Haven trip, 423 ; for 
southern trip, 403 



Jackson Artillery, 28, 54, 88 
Jackson Day celebration, 18, 21, 149 
Jackson Guards, 28 

Jackson, Gen. Andrew, reception of, 43 ; 
funeral procession, 80 



Jackson, Lieut. John, 372 

Japanese Embassy, 126 

Jefferson Guards, 88 

Johnson, Frank, band leader, 16 ; in 

Boston, 44 ; visit to England ; death 

of, 45 
Johnstown Flood, 313 
Junior Artillery, 28, 54, 88 



Kearney Guards of N. J., 233, 235, 240, 
246 

Kelley, Hon. Wm. D., 175, 199, 260 

Kern, Gabriel, 227 

Kerr, William, 10 

Keystone Battery, 243, 262, 263, 268, 
306, 325 

King, William, 39 

Kossuth, Louis, arrival of, 92 ; entertain- 
ment of, 94 ; life of, 94 ; letter from, 
95 ; medal presented to, 92 ; speech of, 
93 

Kuhn, Capt. Hartman, 8, 90 



Lafayette Artillerists, 54 

Lafayette Guards, 29, 111, 135, 147 

Lafayette Guards of N. Y., letter from, 
90, 127, letter to, 128, visit of, 88 

Lafayette Light Guards, 54, 87 

Lafayette Light Infty., 29 

Lafayette, Marquis de, 18 

Lanard, Thomas S., elected 1st Lieut., 
373 ; publication of book on southern 
trip, 422 ; visit to Atlanta, 403 ; visit 
to New Haven, 423 

Lancaster Fencibles, 60 

Lancaster Volunteers, 67 

Law suit, appeal of 6th Regt., 366 ; 6th 
Regt. vs. Fencibles, 356 ; opinion of 
court, 357 ; opinion of Supreme Court, 
368 

Leake, John, 110 

Leans, Martin, elected 2nd Lieut.. 107 ; 
elected Treasurer, 150 ; resignation of, 
111 

Lectures, military, 401 

Letters from, Baugh. Captain. 274 ; 
Boston Fusileers, 274 ; Dulles, Jos. H., 
187 ; Gardiner, C. C, 150 ; Harris- 
burg Citizens, 53 ; Herse, Wm. S., 16 ; 
Hofmann, Gen., 187 ; Honorary Staif, 
117 ; Hoyt, Governor, 278 ; Lafayette 
Guards of N. Y., 127 ; Mercer, Mary 
C, 113 ; National Guards, 109 ; Nor- 
ristown Citizens, 56 ; P.ige, Captain, 
23 ; Pageant Committee, 381 ; Perma- 
nent Expo., 269 ; River Guards of 



INDEX 



LIX 



Cin., 108; Ryan, Captain, 211; Sec- 
ond Infty., Cal., 196; Spanish Consul, 
223 ; Spanish Engineers, 257, 258 ; 
Volunteer of 1861, 132 

Letters on, Boston Fusileers' visit. 205 ; 
Death of Maj. Polhomus, 126 ; Forma- 
tion of Battalion, 271, 273 ; Riots, 
1844, 68 ; Trolley Strike, 393, 394 

Letters to, Lafayette Guards of N. Y., 
128 ; Second Infty., Cal., 196 ; Spanish 
Consul. 223 

Levy, Lieut. Adam, 17 

Liberty Bell, 324, 326 

Library, collection military, 215 

Light Dragoons, 5 

Lincoln monument, 162 

Lopez. Lieut. Ferdinand, 111, 200 



M 



Maloney, John D., elected Ensign, 13 ; 

elected 1st Lieut., 17 
Mardi Gras, 200 
Marston, Thomas H., elected 3rd Lieut., 

88 ; elected 2nd Lieut, 96 ; re-elected 

2nd Lieut., 102 ; resignation of, 107 
Meade, Gen. George G., 310 
Mechanic Rifles, 79 
Medals, service, 395 
Meecke, Lieut. Charles, 275 
Melloy, John, elected 4th Lieut., 115 ; 

elected Vice-Pres., 150 
Memorial Day, 1871, 160 

1874, 202 ; 1875, 216 ; 

1880, 289; 1887, 310; 

1889, 313; 1891, 317; 

1895, 1896, 329; 1897, 331; 1900, 

349; 1902, 368; 1906, 373; 1910, 

394 ; notice of, 319 
Middleton, John, elected 3rd Lieut., 58, 

61 ; resignation of, 88 
Middletown, Pa., 341 
Mifflin Guards, 54 
Military Convention, 50 
Militia Day, 21 
Miller's Marines, 5 
Miller, John, 140 ; elected 2nd Lieut., 

71 ; elected 1st Lieut., 110 ; elected 

Captain, 130 ; resignation of, 88 
Mink's tavern, 11 
Minutes, extract from, 119, 148, 149 ; 

minute book, 1861, 147 
Minute Men of '76, 135, 147 
Mitchell's Rifle Co., 5 
Monroe Guards, 28, 54. 87 
Montgomery Grays of Norristown, 25 
Montgomery Guards, 29, 88 
Montgomery Guards of Boston, 160, 166 
Montgomery Guards of N. Y., 58 
Montgomery Hibernia Greens, 54 



1872, 167; 

1877, 261 ; 

1888, 311 ; 

1893, 324 ; 



Monumental Club of Balto., ISO 

Moore, ,Iohn, elected 3rd Lieut., 47 ; 2nd 

Lieut., 49 ; 1st Lieut., 50 
Moore, Oscar, bell presented by, 270 ; 

elected 1st Lieut, 275 
Moore, Samuel, 272 
Moore, Thomas, 150 
Morgan, Lieut. Chas. C, i7 
Moser, Geo. W., elected secty., 272 ; 1st 

Lieut, 275 
Muster Roll, Civil War, 137, 138, 139 ; 

Mexican War, 83 ; War. 1812, 6 
McCall, Capt. .John C, 10 
McCIellan, Gen. George, 327 
McClellan, Gen. William; death of, 318; 

funeral of, 319 
McColgan, James, 301 
McCulIough, John, 276 
McKenna, Lieut. Alexander, 275 
McLean, Maj. George W., 323 



N 



Nashville Grays, 374 

National Artillery, 87 

National Grays, 35. 47, 54, 57, 58, 87, 
111, 134, 135, 136, 147, 184 

National Guards, 87, 94, 111, 147, 184 ; 
laying cornerstone for Armory, 109 ; 
letter from, 109 ; dedication of Armory, 
110 

Native American procession 72 ; report 
of Captain Page on, 76 ; report of 
General Cadwalader on, 76 

National Guards of Harrisburg, 99 

National Lancers of Boston, 427 

National Light Infty., 29 

National Troop, 54 

Naylor, Capt. Charles, 146 

Naylor Guards, 140 

Naylor, George J., elected 1st Lieut., 
140, 143 ; resignation of, 146 

Neil, George H., 345 

New Haven Grays, 234, 246 ; history of, 
236 ; visit of, 253 

New York Light Guards, 48 ; visit of, 
47 

Ninth Regt of N. Y., 409 

Norfolk Light Art Blues, 234, 246 ; 
history of, 238 ; resolutions from, 
251 

Norristown Fire Co., 176 

Northern Liberty Volunteers, 28 

Newspaper account of, age of Fencibles, 
105 ; an old Fencible, 206 ; anniver- 
sary, 1873. 188 ; 1879, 280 ; anniver- 
sary, 1892, 319; 1910. 394; 1912. 
422 ; arrow, sign of, 317 ; Atlanta, 
visit to. 404. 405, 406, 409 ; Atlantic 
City, visit to, 193, 194 ; Baltimore, 



I,X ONE HUNDEED YEAES WITH THE STATE FENCIBLEB 1913 



visit to, 181, 182 ; band, 375 ; Cen- 
tennial, State Feiiclbles, 433 ; Ctiar- 
lotte, visit to, 417 ; court martial, 156 ; 
criticising State Fencibles, 189 ; Dan- 
ville, visit to, 418 ; Drouet, Robert, 
379 ; Du Pont, Camp, survivors, 172 ; 
Fatland, visit to. 111, 112, 115; fu- 
neral of Gen. Meade, 172 ; Gate City 
Guard, 286, 287 ; Hartranft, Gov., in- 
auguration, 177, 178 ; Hoyt, Gov., in- 
auguration, 277 ; Independence Day, 
190 ; inspection, 197, 327 ; Lewistown, 
329, 330 ; Neshaminy Falls Camp, 
332 ; New Haven, visit to, 424, 425 ; 
New York, visit to, 117 ; pageant, his- 
torical, 430 ; parade, 1852, 97 ; 1876, 
252 ; Centennial Legion, 248, 249, 
251 ; Peace Monument at Atlanta, 
413 ; Phoenixville, camp at, 296 ; re- 
lief notice, 134 ; return of Fencibles, 
341, 342 ; riots. 1874, 201 ; 1877, 268 ; 
1892, 321, 322 ; Ryan, Maj. interview 
with, 279 ; Sea Isle City, camp at. 
378, 380, 385, 395, 396, 397 ; Spar- 
tanburg, visit to, 415, 416 ; target 
firing, 1854, 102 ; target firing, Car- 
nac's Woods, 119 ; target firing, 1874, 
205 ; Thanksgiving parade, 257 ; Tor- 
resdale, camp at, 325, 326 ; trolley 
strike, 390, 394 ; Walnut St. Theatre, 
drill at, 211 ; Washington, visit to, 
182; Wray medal, 101 



Old Guard, State Fencibles, banner pre- 
sented by, 187 ; organization of, 133 ; 
reorganization of, 349 ; strike resolu- 
tions of, 391 

Old Guard of N. Y., 233, 234, 246, 282, 
2.88, 289, 291, 409, 411, 427 ; history 
of, 238 ; visit of, 279 

Oliver, Joseph, elected 2nd Lieut., 35 ; 
elected 1st Lieut, 39, 47 

Orders, Atlanta trip, 402 ; Atlantic City 
excursion, 168, 192 ; assemble for 
service, 317 ; banquet. New Haven, 
428 ; Boston excursion, 40, 41, 42 ; 
camp. Sea Isle City, 377 ; Centennial 
celebration, 222, 223 ; complimenting 
Fencibles, 230 ; Civil War, 131, 132, 
133, 134 ; death of Sergt. Stimmel. 375, 
376 ; death of Gen. Meade, 170, 171 ; 
death of Lieut. Richardte, 125 ; death 
of Maj. Ryan, 305, 306 ; designating 
State Fencibles, 196 ; drills, 20, 22 ; 
election, 1871, 153; Fifth Maryland 
Regt, 191, 192 ; Fourth Regt. 167, 
168 ; formation for parade, 1876, 231, 
232, 233 ; Founders' Week celebration. 



382 ; inauguration of Pres. Grant, 
178, 179; July 28, '1814, 6; No. 1, 
1871, 151 ; regarding fines. 12 ; riots. 
1844; 67; 1871. 157, 158, 159; 
Spanish-American War, 334, 335 ; tar- 
get firing, 106, 205 ; transferring Fen- 
cibles to 6th Regt, 348 

Ordinance, annual allowance, 371 ; uni- 
form appropriation, 79 

Original articles of organization, 2 

Original muster roll, 2 

Osborn, Captain, 51 



Packer, Edw. E., 154, 175 

Pageant, historical, 381, 384, 428 

Page, Charles, 140, 143, 146 

Page, James, 10 ; appointed paymaster, 
13 ; birthday celebration, 48 ; con- 
troversy with Capt Ryan, 206 ; death 
of, 213 ; decoration of grave, Zl6, 261 ; 
elected Captain, 12, 13, 61 ; Colonel, 
46 ; Captain, 88, 102, 116 ; President 
150, 154 ; funeral of, 213 ; medial pre- 
sented to, 91 ; sword, 120 ; silver, 
pitcher, 30 ; cane, 124 ; silver goblet. 
51 ; $1,000, presented by estate of, 
228 ; poem by, 34, 203 ; resolutions on 
death of, 214 ; speech of, 31, 36, 92, 
186 

Patterson Guards, 87 

Pattison, Robert E., 156 ; address of, 
269, elected Pres., 250, 272 ; inaugu- 
ration of, as Gov., 294 

Porter, David R.. 154 

Pottsville Light Infty., 98 

Presentation of, ambulance, 332 ; ban- 
ner, original, 14 ; banner of 1814, 
186, 189 ; Baugh Medal, 270 ; Biddle 
Memorial Window, 300 ; cane, to Col. 
Page, 124 ; cannon balls. 199 ; cer- 
tificate to Wm. D. Kelley, 175 ; cake 
basket, silver, 270 ; colors, stand of, 
124, 160, 384 ; cross, gold, to Capt. 
Osborn, 57 ; crown, silver, to Miss 
Anderson, 294 ; cup, loving, to Maj. 
Brazer. 349 ; flag, 21, 46, 94, 160, 
198, 213, 269 ; flag, champion, 216 ; 
floral corps mark to Maj. Brazer, 377 ; 
floral ship to Hamilton Disston, 304 ; 
locomotive bell, 270 ; musket, by Capt. 
Yohe, 45 ; musket from Mexican War, 
85 ; $1,000 from estate of Col. Page. 
22S ; Page Memorial Window, 300 ; 
pencil, gold, 106 ; pin, military, 106 ; 
pictures by A. Weder, 373 ; pitcher, 
silver, by Capt. Deviney, 167 ; pitcher, 
silver, to Capt. Page, 30 ; pitcher, 
silver, to Lieut. Fritz, 36 ; portrait of 



INDEX 



I, XI 



Maj. Polhamus, 126 ; portrait of Maj. 
Ryan, 278 ; purse of gold to Louis 
Kossuth, 92 ; records, original, 80 ; 
sword, to Capt. Page, 120, 214 ; sword, 
to Capt. Garcia, 397 ; testimonial, to 
Col. Coleman. 184 ; urn, silver, 270 ; 
watch, to Capt. Ryan, 176, 249 ; 
watch, to Miss Rowan, 218 ; medal, 
gold, 56 ; medal, gold, to Louis Kos- 
suth, 92 ; medal, gold, to Capt. Page, 
91 ; medal, Jackson, 84 ; medal, leath- 
er, 110, 169 ; medal. Page, 84, 214 ; 
medial, presented by John Leake, 110 ; 
medal, silver, 19 ; medal, Staff. 119 ; 
medal, Washington, 83 ; medal, Wray, 
100 

Parade, 1819, 13; 1820, 15; 1824, 18 
1825, 19; 1827, 21; 1830, 34; 1832 
39 ; 1835, 46 ; 1836, 48 ; 1837, 49 
1840, 58; 1843, 61; 1844, 78; 1845 
80 ; 1848, 86 ; 1851, 90 ; 1854, 99 
1856, 108; 1858, 110; 1859, 115 
1860, 124 ; 1874, 202 ; 1875, 216 
1876, 229 ; Centennial, Division, 229 
252 ; formation of Atlanta, 410 
honor of Chas. Carroll, 45 

Park, Lieut. Robert .T., 71 

Parker, Gov. Joel, 195 

Paris Expo., 270 

Peace Jubilee parade, 342 

Pelouze Cadets of Detroit, 247 

Penn Township Guards, 28, 54 

Pennsylvania Artillery, 28 

Pennsylvania Guards, 29 

Pennsylvania, launching of, 49 

Phalanx Artillery, 28 

Providence Light Infty., 43 

Protest, A., 155 

Putnam Phalanx, 407, 409, 411, 427 ; 
poem to, 255 ; visit of, 230, 254 

Philadelphia Cadets, 21, 29, 80 

Philadelphia City Guards, 147 

Philadelphia Grays, 29, 54, 87, 111 

Philadelphia Lancer Guards, 54 

Philadelphia Light Guards, 87, 111 

Philadelphia Light Infty., 29 

Philadelphia Repeal Vol., 87 

Psiladelphia Zouaves, 135, 306 

Pierce Light Guards of Boston, 245 

Poem, dedicated to. Miss Chapron, 34 ; 
Boston Fusileers, 203 ; Putnam 
Phalanx, 255 

R 

Reading Rifle Corps, 96 

Reading Volunteers, 22 

Reunion of survivors, 149, 173, 260 

Resolutions, Albany Burgess Corps, 71 ; 
Armory, regarding, 79, 295 ; Battalion 
formation, 273 ; Biddle, Clement C. 



dteath of, 107 ; Biddle, Geo. W., death 
of, 330 ; Cadwalader, Gen., thanks to, 
71 ; Civil War, 123 ; Duquesne Grays, 
292 ; Dutton. Lieut., death of, 70 ; 
Garfield, Pres., assassination of, 291 : 
Geer, W. F., death of, 254; Gingrich, 
Michael J., death of, 256 ; Grier, 
Lieut, death of, 141 ; Hesser, Colonel, 
death of, 145, 146 ; Kllllngsworth. 
Edw. W., death of, 125, 126 ; Meade, 
Gen., death of, 171 ; National Guards, 
103 ; Old Guard, 133 ; Page, Col., 
death of, 214 ; reinstate Fencibles, 
153 ; Richards, Thos. M., death of, 
124 ; trolley strike, 391 ; uniform 
comm., 104 ; Washington's Birthday, 
78 

Richmond Hotel, 29 

Richmond Howitzers, 284 

Richmond Light Infty. Blues, 284, 409. 
412, 427 

Ringgold Art., of Reading, 184 

Riots, Erie R. R., 200 ; newspaper ac- 
count and telegram, 201 ; Fencibles 
called out, 390 ; 4th and 5th Wards, 
162 ; Homestead, 320 ; Native Amer- 
ican, 63, 64 ; Pittsburgh, 261 ; Scran- 
ton, 159, 266 ; trolley strike, 389 

Ripperger, Lieut. Wm., 35 

River Guards of Cin., 108 

Roberts, Capt. Chas. F., 10, 11 

Rockhill, Lieut. Thos. C, 10, 104 

Rodgers, Lieut. Wm., 315 

Ross, Anna M. Post, 216. 306 

Rowan, Louise, 219 

Roxborough Volunteers, 54 

Rudman, Lieut. Wm. C, 39 

Rush's Field, 18 

Ryan, John W., circular letter from, 
211 ; controversy with Col. Page, 206 ; 
death of, 305 ; decoration of grave, 
310, 311, 313, 317, 324, 329. 331, 
349, 368, 374 ; elected Captain. 153, 
228 ; Major, 275 ; President. 298 ; 
entered Fencibles, 152 ; extract History 
1st Regt., 307 ; funeral of, 306 ; news- 
paper compliment, 296 ; orders on 
death, 305, 307 ; presentation of 
watch, 176 ; portrait, 278 ; speech of, 
250; testimonial to. 199 



Saint, Lieut. Geo. W.. 47 

Sauter. Charles F., 228 

Scott Legion, 114 

Sea Isle City Yacht Club, 379 

Second Battery, N. G. N. Y.. 315 

Second City Troop, 28 

Second Co. Gov. Foot Guard, 427 



LXll 



ONE HUNDRED YEARS WITH THE STATE FENCIBLES 1913 



Second Regt, Pa., 165, 201, 244, 257, 
293 

Seitzinger, Lieut. Jacob J., 115 

Seventh Regt, N. Y., 246, 313, 314 

Seventeenth Regt, P. V., 306 

Seventy-second Regt, P. V., 139 

Shelley, Peter, 345 

Sign of the Arrow, 316 

Simpson, Capt Geo. W. P., 275 

Sixth Regt, Pa., 244, 268, 272, 318, 
325, 327, 336 ; application for charter, 
367 ; controversy with, 346, 349, 356 ; 
law suit of, 356 ; notice to vacate Ar- 
mory, 367 

Sixty-first Regt., P. V., 306 

Small, Robert H., 296 

Smith, Lieut E. W., 146 

Smith, Lieut. Wm. R., 154 

Stewart, Lieutenant, reception by, 212 ; 
reprimand of, 270 ; resignation of, 
272 

Stimmel, James C, death of, order on 
death of, 375 ; funeral of, 376 

Stone, Benjamin Say, decoration of grave 
of, 216 ; funeral of, 199 

St. Paul's Church, 328 

Stratton, Lieut. Benjamin, 88 

Spanish Engineers, arrival of, muster 
roll of, 224 ; departure of, 259 ; en- 
tertainment of, 227 ; in parade, 248 ; 
letter from, 257, 258 

Staff, Honorary, 159 

State Artillery, 28, 54 

State Guards, 28 

Steuben Fusileers, 87 

St' Stephen's Church, 315 

Sutterlee, Capt J., 298 



Tacony Rifles, 372 

Taft Col. Aaron, 326 

Target firing, 1819, 14; 1825, 19; 1828 
24; 1829, 29; 1831, 38; 1833, 45, 46 
1834, 46; 1835, 1836, 48; 1836, 49 
1837, 49, 50; 1838, 50; 1839, 56, 58 
1840, 58; 1841, 59; 1842, 1843, 61 

1843, 62 ; 1845, 80 ; 1846, 81 ; 1847 
85, 86 ; 1848, 1849, 88 ; 1850, 89 
1851, 91; 1852, 94, 96; 1853, 97, 98 
1854, 99, 102 ; 1855, 106 ; 1856, 108 
1857, 110; 1858, 114; 1859, 115 
119; 1860, 124, 127; 1874, 205. 210 
1875, 219; 1877, 269; distance of 
1828, 1913, 24 

Tender of service, for War of 1812, 4 
for Buckshot War, 53 ; for Riots of 

1844, 65 ; for Mexican War, 83, 85 
for Civil War, 123 ; for Riots of 1877 
261 ; for Spanish- American War, 334 
for Trolley Strike, 389 



Thanksgiving Day, 1822, 1823, 17 
1826, 20 ; 1856, 110 ; 1858, 114 
1859, 120 ; 1860, 127 ; 1871, 162 
1873, 198; 1874, 211; 1875, 219 
1876, 256; 1878, 276; 1887, 311 

3rd Regt, N. G. P., 244, 293, 325 

13th Regt, N. G. N. Y., 162 

21st Infty., U. S. A., 342 

22nd Regt, N. Y., 245, 293, 323 

23rd Regt, N. Y., 247 

23rd Regt, P. V., 306 

31st Regt. P. v., 140 

33rd Regt., P. V., 140 

215th Regt, P. v., 306 

Thoroughfare Gap, 340 

Titusville Citizens' Corps, 184 

Tompkins Blues of N. Y., 24, 25, 43 
45, 90, 94 

Troy Citizens' Corps, 57 

Tyler Guards, 88 



u 



Uniform of, 1814, 13 ; 1826, 20 ; 1832, 
39 ; 1835, 47 ; 1843, 61 ; 1844, 62, 
78 ; 1848, 87 ; 1852, 95 ; 1855, 104 ; 
1871, 162; 1888, 312; 1905, 371; 
1907, 1911, 374; 1909, 385; 1911, 
401 

Union Pencibles, 54, 87 

United States Hotel, 92 

United States Marines, 244 

United Train Art of R. L, 245 



Vallee, Lieut Francis, 107, 110 
Van Hook, William, 154 
Van Schaick, Col. J. B., 54, 55 
Varnum Continentals, R. I., 428 
Vermont National Guard, 247 
Veteran Corps of Artillery, N. Y., 427 
Veteran Guards of N. Y., 244 
Virginia National Guard, 246 
Visit to, Albany, 49, 50, 150 ; Allentown,, 
33 ; Atlanta, 404, 414 ; Atlantic City, 
126, 168, 192, 269 ; Baltimore, 180 ; 
Bethlehem, 33 ; Boston, 43, 217 ; Bris- 
tol, 17, 37, 45, 48, 60, 86, 88, 124 ; 
Brunswick, 25 ; Bunker Hill, 216 ; 
Camden, 49, 79, 90, 102, 106, 108, 
110, 114, 127, 162, 310 ; Cape May, 
294, 295 ; Charlotte, 417 ; Chester, 80 ; 
Cooper's Point, 46 ; Danville, 419 ; 
Easton, 33, 43, 60 ; Fatland, 99, 111, 
115, 148 ; Germantown, 29, 45, 89, 
160, 297 ; Gloucester, 97, 151 ; Grubb's 
Tavern, 18 ; Harrisburg, 176, 277, 
309 ; Kaighn's Point 13, 16 ; Lambs 
Tavern, 19 ; Manayunk, 202 ; Morris- 



INDEX 



LXllI 



town, N. J., 24 ; Mt. Holly, 85 ; New 
Brunswick, 25, 43, 46 ; New York, 25, 
26, 43, 117, 217, 288, 291, 312, 314. 
323, 330, 428 ; Newark, 43 ; Norrls- 
town, 22, 56, 176, 318 ; Paterson, 43 ; 
Pine Grove. 15 ; Pottsgrove, 22 ; Potts- 
ville, 81 ; Pottstown, 318, 325 ; Prince- 
ton, 25, 43 ; Providence, 43 ; Reading, 
22, 89 ; Roxborough, 19 ; Roxbury, 43 ; 
Salem, 43 ; Sanger Park, 270 ; Spar- 
tanburg, 415 ; Tacony, 91, 94, 219 ; 
Trenton. 24, 25, 33, 326 ; Troy, 50 ; 
Washington, 260, 301, 312. 323. 420 
Washington. 2G0. 301, 312. 323 420 ; 
Wilmington, 29, 164 ; Yorktown, 292 
Voltigeurs Company, 135 
Volkmar, Wm. J., 140, 150, 301 

w 

Walnut St. Prison, 14 

War, Buckshot, 52 ; Civil, 123 ; Call for 
Volunteers, 129 ; Fencibles enter serv- 
ice, 129 ; assigned to 33rd Regt., 142 ; 
in 100 days service, 146 ; at Antietam, 
141 ; mustered out, 136, 144 ; uov- 
ernor's Proc, 141 ; resolutions, 123 ; 
Mexican, 82 ; Muster Roll, 83 ; requi- 
sition on Penna., 82 ; troops volun- 
teering. 87 ; tender of service, 83, 85 ; 
peace parade. 85 ; Spanish-American, 
333 ; at Mt. Gretna, 336 ; mustered in, 
336 ; revolt of Fencibles, 338 ; Fenci- 
bles return, 341 ; report of Maj. 
Brazer, 343 

Washington Art. of Pottsville, 114, 115 

Washington Artillery, 25 

Washington's Birthday celebration. 1821. 
15, 1822. 1824, 17 ; 1827, 21 ; 1828, 
25 ; 1830. 30 ; 1831, 37 ; 1832, 39 ; 
1833, 45; 1844, 78; 1874, 200; 1877, 
259 ; 1878, 272 ; 1883, 295 

Washington Blues. 29. 54. 67, 78, 87, 
111, 134, 135 



Washington Cavalry, 28, 75 
Washington Fencibles, 29 
Washington. George, Centennial, 312 
Washington Grays, 28, 54, 57, 79, 80, 

94, 111, 184, 245, 260, 270. 282 
Washington Grays of Reading, 5U 
Washington Guards, 15 
Washington Hlllerists of Pottsville, 80 
Washington Light Infty., 88 
Washington Light Infty. of Pittsburgh, 

183 
Washington Light Infty., S. C, 233, 234, 

236. 246 
Washington Light Infty., D. C, 57, 180, 

185, 245, 260 
Washington Monument, 45, 331, 326 
Washington Nat. Guards, 88 
Watmough, Colonel, 30 
Weccacoe Legion, 184, 245, 268 
Weder, A., 373 
West Point Cadets, 243 
West Phila. Grays, 111 
Wetherill, Lieut. Samuel P., 10, 13 
White Bear Tavern, 18 
White, Reuben P., 80 
Williams. B. J., elected 4th Lieut, 58, 

61 ; 2nd Lieut, 88 ; vice-pres., 154 
Witherup, Wm. A., elected Major, 318 ; 

resignation, 325 
Woodman's Tavern, 17 
Worcester Continentals, 316, 427 
Wray, Lieut. Andrew, 13 
Wray, Jacob, 88 ; death of. 102 ; medal 

presented by, 100 



Yellow Cottage, 38, 48. 49. 50. 58 
Yorktown Centennial. 292 



Zouaves du Afric. 111. 147 



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